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Copy 1 



REPORT 



OF THE 



COMMISSIONERS 



OF 



FOREST PARK, 



1 8 7 ^. 



Saint IjOUis, MoT: 

printed by jno. j. daly ■; co;, 213 north jhird street. 

1 s r 6 . 



187S 



BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS 



Chauncey F. Shultz. 
John O'F. Farrar. 
Hiram W. Leffingwell. 
Peter G. Gerhart. 
Andrew McKinley. 
Ansyl Phillips. 
John J. Fitzwilliam. 



Andrew McKinley, Ansyl Phillips, 

President. Vice President. 

Chas. Bland Smith, 
Secretai-y. 



I^EIPOI^T 



OF THE 



COMMISSIONERS 



OF 



FOREST PARK, 



1875. 




SAINT LOUIS, MO. : 

PRINTED BY .IiVO. J. DAl-Y & CO., 213 NORTH TUrRD STREET. 

1876. 

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REPORT 



CoiTimissioners of Forest Park. 



Office of the Boarh of Commissioners of Forest Park, 

St. Louis, January 1st, 1876. 

To the Honorable, the Judges of the 

County Court of St. Louis County : 

Forest Park is in the first year of its existence, and by a 
provision of the Act for its establishment, the Board of Commission- 
ers is required " to repoi't all its proceedings to the County Court at 
the first meeting of said Court in January and July of each year." 

The rapid growth of St. Louis has aroused the dormant energ-v of 
oiu' people, and the metropolitan taste and ambition of St. Louis, 
illustrated by her great bridge, tunnel, fair grounds, custom house, 
chamber of commerce, and palatial stores and residences, have brought 
into existence, as its most charming feature, a system of Parks, 
unequalled by any city in the new world. 

In a few months, when the great number to whom Forest Park is 
known only by name, shall avail themselves of the means which will be 
then afforded to explore this novel region, great will be their grati- 
fication and surprise to behold its superb scenery, in a forest whose 
natural beauty had been marred by the rude hand of the woodman. 
Nature had been lavish in her gifts ; but only two antiquated dwellings 
with some dilapidated out-houses, and the huts of miners of the poorer 
class, were to be found in its vast extent. Three neglected farms, and 
two open, but abandoned, fields disfigured, rather than adorned, the 
surrounding forest. 



8 

It was indeed strange that this large tract of land should have been 
left in a state of nature, covered by native grasses and trees in wonder- 
ful profusion, and so admirably adapted to the wants of the peoj)le of a 
great city. With all its natural and undisclosed beauties and adapta- 
bility for park uses, its centrality and accessibility, yet the land was 
esteemed to be of little value. The extraordinary attractions of the 
Park, even in its present incomplete state, will well reward the visitor. 
Its dense woods, its majestic trees, wide spreading lawns, and its far 
reaching outlooks, offer an enticing spectacle to all wlm enjoy the 
beauties presented by the grace of its natural surfaces. 

The illustrations furnished in this report, show some views which 
exhibit fairly the general characteristic features of the Park. They 
might have been multiplied indefinitely, but will, perhaps, suffice. 

The importance of the Park purchase in providing a place of 
resort, of rare interest and beauty, for the enjoyment and recreation 
of our people, can scarcely be over-estimated ; but its acquisition and 
improvement would have been justified from sanitary and economical 
considerations alone. 

Its surface, as seen by the accompanying topographical map, 
lire extremely diversified and often broken liy abrupt declivities, at 
the feet of which winds the River des P^res, or by the rugged 
and narrow ravines which furnish drainage to the river. It is true 
that these features present some of the most picturesque scenes of 
Forest Park, but are poorly adapted to city uses and improvements; 
and when the city shall extend to and around the Park, the cost of 
bringing up its grades, of burrowing through its hills and of sewering 
its turbulent river and tributary ravines, would have been, but for 
the appropriation of these lands to park uses, greater than the cost 
of the purchase. 

The low lands would, doubtless, sooner or later, have been 
devoted to large dairy establishments, pig stys, factories for glue, 
soap and other olfensive things. Indeed, some of these before the 
Park was acquired, had invaded the property ; and experience in 
other localities of our city, serves to show liow rapidly nuisaiunvs 



9 

multiply when they obtain a foothold on the borders of a stream, 
and how speedily and thoroughly they destroy the value and uses of 
all surrounding and otlu'rwise desirable property. Before the estab- 
lishment of Forest Park, the best improvements were advancing 
westwardly in that direction, and the existence of the nuisances 
above-mentioned, would have arrested all improvements and have 
reduced, to the lowest standard of value, this now promising and 
splendid suljurb. The low lands of the Park, recently so repulsive, 
are now adorned by bright and extensive lakes, and by midsummer, 
will be embellished by numerous fountains. This transformation will 
also dissipate the malaria which lurked amid the shaded recesses of 
the low and overflowed lands of the Park. 

An additional and more important inducement for the purchase 
will appear when a site for another grand reservoir shall be needed. 
This will certainly occur within the next ten years, and a most 
eligible location will be found in the elevated portion of the Park. 
It is immediately west of the centre of the city, on an elevation of 
one hundred and eighty feet al)ove the city directrix. It can be 
reached by connections with the mains on (irand avenue, and its 
distance from the Water Tower is not much greater than is the 
reservoir on Compton Hill. Much has been said of bringing water to 
the city from the Meramec river ; should this be done, no other site 
for a reservoir will equal thi.< in its accessibility, as a point of supply 
and distribution. It has been paid for and secured ! 

Forest Park will prove attractive at all seasons, spring will give 
it, with its luxuriant, indigenous grasses and the varied verdure of its 
native and cultivated trees, an exquisite beauty and freshness. In the 
leafy month, the light and shadow of its open lawns, interspersed with 
groups and individual ti-ees, will be presented in striking contrast with 
the dark recesses of the wilderness, where it will be a study to presserve 
aU of the impressive features of the primeval forest. 

The changing leaves of autumn, found in such perfection in our 

country, here offer the greatest contrast, and splendid variety and 

combination of colors. In winter, when snow and sleet cover the 

earth and drape the trees in the clear and bright morning sun, a 

B 



10 

scene fairy-like and indescribable will be disclosed. But in the summer 
afternoons, and early mornings, the Park will prove the most delight- 
ful. The early spring, the protracted and ardent heat of the summer 
months, and the glories of our Indian summer, lingering almost until 
merry Christmas, renders, in this climate, a forest Park attractive and 
enjoyal^le for quite eight nionths in the year. When opened to the 
public next spring, it will be the rendezvous of our people in a gay 
throng of carriages, and of visitors by the lines of ijuick transit, 
then prepared for their accommodation. 

The Board, immediately after its organization, addressed itself 
to the means of attaining the best approaches to the Park and has 
not ceased to give that matter its most earnest attention. 

A bill, to authorize your Honorable Body to provide suitable 
Boulevards and Avenues in connection with Forest Park, OTallon 
Park and ('arondelet Park, was prepared and sent to the State 
Legislature. It passed and was approved on ]\Iarch 20th, 1875. 

This Act, in section 1, dolarcs : that " on the petition of the 
Board of Commissioners of Forest Park, O'Fallon Park or Carondelet 
Park, and a majority in interest ol' the owners of pi'operty, fronting 
upon the contemplated Boulevard ur Avenue, the County Court of 
St. Louis Connty may, at its discretion, open and establish all such 
Boulevards and Avenues, as it may deem and determine to. be 
necessary or proper and useful as approaches for any of said Parks." 

Under this act a petition to establish Lindell Boulevard, as provided 
for in the same, was submitted to your Honorable Body. The proposed 
Boulevard is to be one hundri'd and niuety-two feet nine inches wide, 
extending from Cabann6 avenue to the north-eastern entrance of the 
Park, a distance of eight thousand three hundred and thirty-seven 
feet. The ownei's of the land, with rare liberality (with two or three 
exceptions), offer to dedicate so much as is to be eml^raced in widening 
the Boulevard, without compensation therefor. 

The attention of the Court is respectfully requested to this subject, 
as this Boulevard, if opened, will prove the most d&sirable and elegant 
line of access to the Park from the centre of the city. If your Hon- 
(jrabh- Court should fail or refuse to take the necessary steps to open 



11 

this grand Boulevard, the Board fears, in the event of an extension 
of the city limits, there will lie no means to accomplish a result so 
desirable to the County and the Park. 

Under the act of the Legislature above mentioned, and known as 
the Boulevard Bill, certain avenues and boulevards have been petitioned 
lor by the property holders and by this Board, as ibllows : 

Forest Park Boulevard, extending from Grand Avenue to Forest 
Park, one hundred and fifty feet wide. 

St. Louis Avenue, one hundred feet wide, from Arsenal street to the 
Park, on the south side thereof. 

Union Avenue, extending I'mm the St. Charles Bock E.oad, one 
hundred feet wide, to the Park on the north. 

Park Avenu(^, from Lafayette Park to the sriuth-east corner of 
Forest Park. 

Your Honorable Court has taken some action in regard to these, 
and as no opposition has been made, and the proceedings are more or 
less advanced, it is probable that all of them will Ije speedily opened 
to the public. A petition is also in circulation among the property 
owners, to widen the King's Highway, from Tower Grove Park 
(fronting on Forest Park for about 6,000 feet) to the Natural Bridge 
Pi'Oad, but no application has yet been ma.de to widen the same. 
Should this be done, it will furnish an elegant line of connection 
between the several Parks. 



HISTORY OF FOREST PARK. 

Forest Park lies immediately west of the centre of the city, in 
the direct line of its greatest growth and progress, and from it are 
to be seen many of the most elegant mansions of our wealthiest 
citizens. 



12 

An attempt was made to establish a park, with the same name 
and with the same boundaries, by an act of the Legislature, approved 
March 25th, 1872. Some of the owners of property, now within the 
limits of the Park, resisted the act, and upon appeal to the Supreme 
Court of the State, it was declared to be unconstitutional. A new 
bill, avoiding the odious and unconstitutional featui-es of the former, 
wds prepared and submitted to the delegation of the city and county 
at the session of the Legislature in January, 1874. Many oVjjeetions 
were made to the bill, and it was modified so as to make its provis- 
ions confoi'm to the views of the delegation. 

The sum asked for the purchase of the land and to inaugurate 
its improvement was largi^, in the first and most alarming year of 
the still continuing financial panic, and was opposed by strong and 
influential combinations : but passed the Senate by a vote of twenty 
to sc^von, and the House bv a vote of eighty-nine to eight. The bill 
was approved by the Governor on the 25th day of March, 1874. 
Its constitutionality was again assailed. It was resisted by the same 
parties who had opposed the former bill. Able counsel were 
employed on both sides, Messrs. Glover & Sliepley and Thoraas T. 
Gantt appearing ibr the contestants, and Thomas C. Reynolds, in 
behalf of the county, for the Ijill. In eight months and five days 
from the date of its passage, tlu; Supreme Court uiiaiiiniously pro- 
nounced it valid and constitutional in all of its provisions, but 
eliminated the clause which declared that the appraisement of the 
year 1873 should be a guide in fixing the value of the land to be 
taken. 

The appraisers, named l)y your Honorable Court, were accepted 
by the owners of the land, and on the 27th day of March, 1875, after 
patient investigation and laljor, reported the value of the land to be 
the sum of seven hundred and ninety-nine thousand nine hundred 
and ninety-five dollars ($799,995). 

The awards were generally acquiesced in, a decree of condemnation 
was made by the Circuit Court, and the Board of Commissioners 
were put in possession. 



13 

Five owners of small tracts asked for new appraisements, for 
reasons stated in their several petitions. The prayer was granted 
and some unimportant changes made in the valuation, and the entire 
amount of the. appraisement paid to the owners under the orders of 
your Honorable Court. 



ORGANIZATION OF THE BOARD, 

The Board of Commissioners convened for the first time on the 
17th day of June, 1874, and consisted of Joseph O'Neil, Hiram W. 
Leffingwell, Ansyl Phillips, John .J. Fitzwilliam, Peter G. Gerhart, 
John O'Fallon Farrar and Andrew McKinley. Its organization 
was effected by the election of Andrew McKinley, President ; An.syl 
Phillips, Vice President ; and Chas. Bland Smith, Secretary. All of 
these officers were re-elected at the next annual meeting and the 
Board remains the same, e.xcept that Chauncey F. Sliultz, having 
succeeded Joseph O'Neil as Presiding Justice of the County Court, is 
now ex-officio a member of the Board. 

By-Laws for the Government and Regulation of Forest Park, as 
then adopted by the Board of Commissioners, will be found in 
Appendix E. 

No Commissioner receives any compensation for his services, nor 
can any one of them under the law, have any contract connected 
with the Park. 



RAILROAD MATTERS. 

The law establishing Forest Park contains the following proviso : 
" Provided that nothing in this act contained, shall prevent the St. 
Louis County Railroad Company from using and occupying a right of 



14 

way, of a wultli of seventy feet through the north-eastern portion of 
said Forest Park. The said Railroad, shall enter the Park through 
Duncan's subdivision on the east side of said Park, and running 
westwardly on the northern side of the Eiver des P6res, shall pass 
out of said Park at a point on the northern line thereof, east of 
Union Avenue, provided further that no switch or siding shall be 
constructed by said Railroad Company in said Park, nor shall more 
than one depot be established in said Park, and that shall be for 
passengers only : and provided further that the grade of said Rail- 
road, as far as the same runs through said Forest Park, shall be 
ajjproved by said Park Commissioners." 

The topography of that portion of the Park, through which the 
law authorizes the Railroad to be built, could scarcely have been, 
in all respects, more favoraltle to tlie necessities of the Park, at this, 
its point of principal approach. 

Its line through the Pai'k presents a grand and graceful reverse 
curve nearly four thousand feet long, and enters from the direction 
of the city through a cut twenty-five feet deep, to be occupied by 
u tunnel three hundred feet long. Over this the eastern Boulevard 
of the Park will pass, leaving the railroad entirely out of view, and 
reunite its northern and southern portions, until it emerges from 
the cut on an embankment, increasing in elevation to twenty-five 
feet over the Park road for vehicles, and there a viaduct of stone and 
iron is being built, and almost completed, rendering this entrance 
not only safe, but elegant and imposing. 

On the 11th day of August last, a tripartite agreement was made 
by this Board, the St. Louis County Railroad and the St. Louis, 
Kansas City & Northern Railway Companies, by which the latter 
undertook to construct the lino oi' road through the Park, and was 
subrogated to some of the privileges belonging to the St. Louis 
County Railroad, and the difficult problem of park cost ami improve- 
ment was only solved when this agreement was made. The proviso 
above referred to, did not empower the Board to dictate the align- 
ment of the railroad through the Park, nor even to fix its grade, 
but only to approve a grade when offered by the railroad company. 



15 

These companies met the Board in a fair and liljoral spirit in adjust- 
ing the numerous and embarrassing questions which always attend 
the passage of a great line of steam railway through a costly and 
elegant place of public recreation ; and although this work will be 
expensive, both to the railroads and the Park, the Board hopes and 
believes that the terms agreed upon will Ije entirely satisfactory to 
your Honoralile Court and to the pulilic. 

From the agreement above-mentioned, it will appear that tin; 
railroad companies have undertaken to construct a tunnd one hun- 
dred feet long, instead of leaving, as they might have done, an open 
cut ; to make a double instead of a single track ; to make an 
embankment of earth, ■ instead of trestlework or other cheap devict; ; 
to sod or seed the same and keep it in condition at their own 
proper cost and expense ; to fence, or roof over, in an ornamental 
manner, the track; and goncrallv to manage the road so as to Ecivi- 
the least possible inconvenience or annoyance in running through 
the Park. It is also agreed that the sum of three thousand dollars 
shall be placed at the disposal of the Board, with which to build a 
depot, so that its plan and style of architectui'e shall correspond and 
harmonize with its surroundings. Among the most imjiortant clauses 
in the agreement is that by which the railroad companies covenant 
to permit any other railroads to have and use a right of way 
through the Park over their line and up to its terminus in the city 
of St. Louis, for a fair and equitable compensation. 

Your Honorable Body will recollect the solicitude felt in common 
by the Judges of the County Court and the memljers of this Board, 
when, during the last summer, the St. Louis, Kansas City & Northern 
Railway Company attempted to interpose a new line of railroad between 
the city and the Park. 

Two additional viaducts for the use of visitors on foot, under the 
railroad, are being built, and safe communication is thus furnished to 
pedestrians, as well as to vehicles ; indeed, it is difficult to imagine 
how any accident can occur, unless through the wilfulness of the 
visitor. 



16 

The railroad tlirougli the park is being rapidly constructed, and 
when completed, will furnish quick and cheap transit from the Union 
Depot. 

The sum to be paid out of the Park Fun<l will lie about forty- 
thousand dollars. These structures along the railroad line, while they 
answer the necessities of the road, at the same time substitute the 
usual expensive (but purposeless) features of display at the principal 
entrances to public parks, and from their nature and purpose must of 
necessity be solid and permanent. 



MONUMENTS. 

The statue in bronze, of colossal size, of the late Edward Bates, one 
of Missouri's distinguished citizens, has been acquired from the Bates 
Monument Association, upon terms approved by your Honorable Court. 
The statue and pedestal, botii by the celebrated sculptor, J. Wilson 
MacDonald, will grace some beautiful spot in the Park, and will 
pi'obalily be unveiled during the month of .June next. 

An application has been made to the Board of (commissioners, for 
the dedication of a suitable spot for the erection ol' a statue of the 
great Aposth^ of Temperance, Father Matthew. 

Active movements are also on foot to obtain the means to erect 
moiinmonts to the memory of Daniel O'Connell, and our late fellow 
citizen. Gen. Francis P. Blair. The Board earnestly sympathizes 
with these movements and will glaiUy appropriate any suitable grounds 
that may be asked for. 



17 



COST OF THE PARK. 

Up to January 1st, 1876, Forest Park has cost the County of 
St. Louis : 

For lands '. $ 820,000 00 

For construction (including all incidental expenses) 227,889 16 



Total '. $1,047,889 16 

The outlay for the land and construction must be regarded 
chiefly as an investment for the future, the full realization of which 
must await the growth of population and the extension of the 
city over ground now at waste. The enhancement in the value of 
life and in the taxable value of the surrounding lands, must imme- 
diately follow the improvements in the Park now in progress, to be 
completed, and in an enjoyable condition by midsummer of the 
current year. The several lines of steam railways which will reach 
the Park from the Union Depot will furnish unusual facilities to 
visitors of all classes, and will make the number of visitors to Forest 
Park proportionately larger than in other cities possessing large 
Parks. The average number of foot passengers in other great Parks 
of our country has (under the usual conditions) been about fifty (50) 
per cent, of the entire number. 

To give an idea of the vast number of persons who visit some of 
our public Parks, I insert from the Second Annual Report of the 
Board of the Department of Public Parks in the city of New York, 
the foUowina; : 



18 



TABLE SHOWING THE NUMBER OF VISITORS TO CENTRAL PARK FOR 

EACH MONTH DURING THE YEAR 1871, NOT INCLUDING 

SLEIGHS AND VELOCIPEDES. 



1871. 



Pedestrians. 



January... 
February .. 

March 

April 

May 

June 

July 

August 

September. 
October .... 
November. 
December.. 
Totals 



3,549,774 



Equestrians. 



145,283 


2,702 


70,350 


127,148 


3,026 


58,578 


118,464 


4,401 


82,782 


234,552 


6,915 


126,733 


436,534 


7,507 


135,037 


467,620 


6,829 


165,186 


506,263 


6,005 


142,445 


384,126 


13,966 


148,114 


418,298 


6,408 


216,155 


296,936 


5,518 


211,926 


166,750 


6,190 


140,844 


247,800 


5,380 


113,365 



74,847 



Vehicles. 



1,611,515 



Central Park is about the same distance from the City Hall 
that Forest Park is from our Court House ; but tlie former is only 
to be reached by its principal drives and by street railroads, 
while we confidently expect, by the first of June next, to have quick 
transit by steam, to the Park, by the Missouri Pacific ; the St. Louis 
Kansas City and Northern ; tlie St. Louis County, and the West 
End Narrow Gauge Railways, to be speedily follow^'d by an extension 
of all street railroads running west. The three first mentioned 
will make the distance from the Union Depot in less than twelve 
minutes. The general closing of shops on Sunday will doubtless 



19 



make that the gala-day, and it will be the care of the Board to open 
foot-paths, at the earliest possible day, to the most attractive features 
of the Park. 



GENERAL PLAN OF IMPROVEMENT. 

SURVEYS. 

Under the able direction of Julius Pitzman, the first engineer of 
the Park, an exact topographical survey was made, and a miap of 
large scale was completed, within the short period of four months. 
This map has been, and will continue to be, the basis of all construc- 
tive operations. The plans of the eastern half of Forest Park were 
so materially influenced, if not controlled, by the right of way of 
the St. Louis County Eailroad, that the difficult problem of forming 
and perfecting the grand plan, required the most earnest attention 
of the Board of Commissioners, and its solution was not reached 
until the contract between the Railroads and the Board was signed 
on the 11th day of August, 1875. It will therefore appear that 
within five months the General Plan of Improvement has been 
agreed upon, and approved by the Board. On the 15th of April 
last, the work in the Park was inaugurated, and a well organized 
force of laborers were on that day set to the task of generally 
cleaning the grounds and other preliminary work. ■ The now well 
developed plans are being carried out under the direction of the 
Board, by Max G. Kern, General Superintendent and Landscape 
Gardener, and Henry Flad, Civil and Topographical Engineer of 
the Park. 

DESCRIPTION. 

Forest Park contains one thousand three hundred and seventy- 
two acres (1,372) ; fronts on King's Highway (5,488 ft.) fifty-four 
hundred and eighty-eight feet, and extends almost due west, within 



20 

parallel lines, about eleven thousand (11,000) feet. It is distant 
from the Court House four and one-tenth (4xV) miles and embraces 
fully eleven hundred acres of forest. From the eastern Boulevard, 
looking weslwardly, the general surface of the Park rapidly slopes 
to a depression at the E.iver Des P^res of forty (40) feet above the 
city directrix; thence it rises again to the greater elevation of one 
hundred and fifteen or twenty feet, and extending westwardly with 
alternating valleys and hills, whose general direction is north and 
south, it reaches the altitude of one hundred and eighty feet above 
the city directrix, the highest point in the Park." That section of 
the Park, embracing about two hundred and seventy-five acres, which 
lies on the north side of the river, has a lower level averaging 
about sixty feet above the directrix and affords the site of the 
principal lakes. Vistas connecting these meadow lands with the 
hill sides and hi2;her elevations, will brino; both into fall view and 
present them in charming contrast. The principal lake will be seen 
from most of the prominences of the opposite uplands, lying, as they 
do, in a crescent-like form, as well as from the extensive meadows 
of the lower lands. 

BOULKVARD. 

A Boulevai'd, one hundred and thirty feet wide and about six 
thousand six hundred feet long, bounds the entire eastern front of 
the Park, and maintains an average level of ninety feet above the 
city directrix. Parallel with, and adjacent to this grand Boulevard 
in its entire length, is tiie King's Highway, which the Board hopes 
may be included by means of a suitable appropriation under an 
order of your Honoi'ablo Coiiit in its general design, thus presenting 
a Boulevard of ■ one hundred and ninety feet in width. No Park in 
our country has a front so grand and imposing, and its temporary 
improvements, as designed in the general plan, will be attended with 
comparatively little cost. The drive in the Park Boulevard will 
be sixty feet wide, all beyond this will be adorned with trees, grass, 
shrubs, and pedestrian paths. From it there are four principal 
entrances to the Park. 



21 



no AD WAYS. 



The accompanying topographical map illustrates the care which 
has been taken in locating the drives so as to avoid all deep cuts 
and heavy fills ; to reach all objects of interest and beauty ; to 
avoid, as far as possible, unnecessary destruction of trees; and to 
encircle, and at the same time make accessible, the great natural 
lawns which occupy every eminence. A careful investigation of 
all matters connected with the construction of Park roads, has led 
the Board to adopt that, which, after much costly and vain experi- 
ment elsewhere, has proved to be the most enduring and inexpensive 
plan. It is composed of rip-rap, five or six inches deep, carefully 
laid with the hand ; a layer of the debris of the coal mines (found 
in abundance in the Park) sufficient to fill interstices; an additional 
course of macadam about four inches, the whole to be covered with 
about two inches of gravel. The sui'face will be thoroughly rolled. 
On each side of the road are trenches, of the required depth, in 
which are laid vitrified stone pipe, of such size as may be demanded 
by the quantity of water they are required to carry. These trenches 
are closed by carefully constructed gutters, with brick inlets, at 
intervals of from one hundred to three hundred feet. In drainage, 
permanency and economy, these roads are believed to be equal to 
any in use in Parks, and cost about sixteen thousand dollars a mile. 
No repairs resulting from Park use will be needed, beyond a slight 
coating of gravel from time to time. 

BRIDGES. 

Six bridges wliolly of wood, and rustic in design, have also been 
built, and three with stone piers and abutments and superstructui'e 
of wood, are completed and liow in use; while two others of the 
latter class are in rapid progress of completion. A large arched 
culvert, twenty feet span, is also being built, with stone faces and 
parapets. Two other bridges, for vehicles, will be required at some 
future day to make all the connections piresented by the plans accom- 
panying this report. Of the above-mentioned bridges, seven span the 



22 

River des Pferes, five of which are completed and iu use. In t;iste, 
appropriateness, and economy, these bridges will commend themselves 
to the approval of the public, and, as numerous as they are, were 
only constructed where deemed essential to a harmony of design in 
the general plans, and for intercommunication between leading objects 
of interest. 

BUILDINGS. 

As heretofore stated, only t\yo antiquated buildings were found 
within the boundaries of the Park. One known as the " Forsyth 
House or Place," has been metamorphosed at small cost, into " The 
Cottage," to be used as a place of refreshment ; the other, known as 
the " Cabann6 Place," is situated near the line of the grand Eastern 
Boulevard. It is now used as an office building for the Superinten- 
dent's and Engineer!s Departments, but will be converted into a 
" Lodge " as soon as the new structure, now in progress of erection 
near Union Avenue, shall be completed. The latter building, as well 
as that first mentioned, were designed by J. H. McNamara, Architect. 
The former is to be occupied by the executive officers at the Park 
and the police force. A frame building has also been erected near 
the southern boundary line of the Park, and is now used for the 
accommodation of laborers, but will, daring next summer, be changed 
into a Propagating House for exotic plants. 

The prospective features of interest to be included in Forest 
Park, as designated on the general ]ilan, have been ably treated in 
the report of the General Superintendent and Landscape Gardener 
(Appendix " B ") and cannot M\ to commend themselves to all who 
will study these plans. 

The able report of the Civil and Topographical Engineer on the 
constructive operations in the Park, exhibits great care an<l labor, 
and will be found in Appendix " C." 

Appendix " A " embraces the report of the Secretary and 
Treasurer. 

Appendix " D " contains the report of the Police Department. 



23 

The first Engineer of the Park, Julius Pitzman, much to the 
regret of the Board of Commissioners, resigned his ofBce on the 1st 
day of August last, and was succeeded on the same day by Henry 
Flad, the present Chief Engineer. 

The Board takes great pleasure in announcing its appreciation of 
the zeal and fidelity displayed by the principal subordinate officers 
of the Park ; and with great satisfaction call the attention of your 
Honorable Court to the wonderful development and embellishment 
created by their genius and professional accomplishments, and effected 
within the short period of seven months. The other officers and 
employes are entitled to the meed of your approval, for never has 
a more faithful and orderly body of men been employed on a public 
work. 

To the County Court of St. Louis County is due the early enjoy- 
ment of Forest Park by our people. 

Promptly and zealously the Court has taken the responsibility of 
such steps as were necessary to its acquisition ; and all orders 
asked for by the Board of Commissioners for that purpose have 
been unhesitatingly granted. A close vigilance has been exei-cised 
by your Honorable Court over the appropriation of the Park funds, 
while your action has been marked with uniform courtesy to the 
Commissioners. 

Very respectfully, 

ANDREW McKINLEY, 

President. 



APPENDIX A, 



REPORT 



OF THE 



ECf\ETAI\Y AND I\EASUI\EI\. 



Forest Paek, Secretary's Office, 

St. Louis, January 1st, 1876. 
HON. ANDREW McKINLEY, 

President of the Board of Commissioners of Forest Park. 
Sir: 

I have the honor to submit the enclosed statements of the receipts 
and expenditures of Forest Park for the year ending December 31st, 
A. D., 1875 : 

No. 1. The detailed statement of receipts from all sources, of 
money, and the disbursement of the same. 

No. 2. The monthly amount of warrants drawn by the order of 
the Board of Commissioners upon the County Treasurer, and its 
disbursements. 

No. 3. The detailed statement of receipts from the sales of hay, 
wood, etc., at the Park, and its expenditure. 

No. 4. A summary of receipts and disbursements for the year 
ending December 31st, 1875. 

Also, the property account of the general office. 

The number of warrants issued to this date, inclusive, amounts to 
$225,957.50, and number respectively from No. 1 to No. 276, 
inclusive, and accord in amount with the statement rendered by the 
County Treasurer to the Board of Commissioners. 

My account shows the warrants issued by the Board at its 
meeting of yesterday, December 31st, 1875, but cannot be approved 
by the Hon. County Court until Monday next, January 3d, 1876, 
deeming it advisable to embrace these issues in my statement of the 
expenditures in 1875. 

Very respectfully, 

CHAS. BLAND SMITH, 

Seci'etary. 



30 



STATEMENT NO. 1. 

BALANCES OF ACCOUNTS ON DECEMBER 31st, 



1875. 



To Wainint account. 

" Sales of Hay and Wood 

" Pound receipts 

" Rent account 

" St. Louis, Kansas City & Northern Railroad 

By Improvement account. Engineer Department 

" Tool and Implement account. Engineer Department 

" General office account 

" Salary account 

" E.\pense account. Police Department 

" Expense account. Engineer Department 

" Improvement and Construction account, Superintendent's 
Department 

" Tool and Implement account, Superintendent's Depart- 
ment 

" Expense account, Superintendent's Department 

" Pay roll account. Engineer's Department, 

" Pay roll account. Superintendent's Department 

" Pay roll account, Police Department 

" Minor expense account, (discharges) 

" Cash account, pound fines 

" Warrant account, cash 

" Sewer account, Engineer's Department 

" Gravel account. Superintendent's Department 

" Rent account 

" Bridge account, No. 1,2, 3 

" Building account 

" Bates Statue account 

" Trenches account 

" Passage way account 

" Insurance account 

" Guttering.' account 

" Culvert account 

" Railroad viaduct account 

" Inlet account 

" Rip-rap and McAdam account .. 

" Hardware account 



$22o,yj7 

1,511 

IC 

50 

359 



^;'27.RS9 Ifi $227.s,S<i 



?548 
133 

4,85G 

6,166 
255 

2,510 

12,056 



4,334 


35 


2.606 


19 


10,825 


91 


98,513 


93 


3,787 


17 


14,382 


21 


10 


30 


5,851 


96 


7,820 


36 


1,923 


90 


677 


10 


8,966 


35 


9,123 


33 


3,000 


00 


2,073 


57 


5,038 


40 


240 


00 


2,1'Jl 


16 


1,317 


05 


7,41.'-. 


44 


17!- 


20 


1,85.- 


:)3 


64(1 


^)4 



07 
25 
60 
79 
00 
62 

18 



16 



31 



STATEMENT NO. 2, 

MONTHLY RECEIPTS AND EXPENDITURES OF WARRANTS. 



lS7c 
March 



31. 



April 30. 



May 31. 



June 30. 



July 31. 



Aa" 31. 



Sept. 30. 



Oct. 31. 



To 

By 
To 

By 
To 



By 
To 



By 
To 



Bv 



Pay roll 

E.Kptnse account 

warrants on County Treasurer 

pay roll 

Expense account 

warrants on County Treasurer 

piy roll 

Improvement and construction account. 

Tool and Implement account 

Expense account 

warrants on County Treasurer. 

pay roll 

Improvement and construction account. 

Tool and implement account 

Property account 

Expense account 

warrants on County Treasurer 

pay roll 

Improvement and construction account. 

Tool and implement account 

Propertyaccount 

Expense account 

warrants on County Treasurer 

improvement and construction account 

Tool and implement account 

Minor expenses (time cliecks) 

wai-rants on County Treasurer 

pay roll 

Improvement and construction account 

Tool and implement account 

Expense account 

warrants on County Treasurer 

pa y rol 1 

Improvement and construction account 

Pay roll (November) 

Tool and implement account 

Expense account 

warrants on County Treasurer 

Over 



?000 


0(1 




1,3H 


'.11 


?2,214 


330 


0(1 




IGi 


05 


1,107 


13,791 


9(1 




l,3St 


00 




Id:; 


0(1 




l,G8t 


54 


17,018 


16,SU 


o: 




4,127 


75 




1,22;- 


01 




895 


00 




227 


50 


23,290 


2-l,01f 


04 




4,824 


14 




948 


39 




430 


00 




2,950 


w 


33,171 


3,1G1 


36 




340 


64 




500 


00 


4,006 


17,941 


5.>< 




2,983 


05 




48.'- 


02 




2,194 


:34 


23,606 


21,55.'- 


21 




7.757 


H7 




18,781 


51 




77C' 


91 




1,535 


22 


50.403 


*|.")4.8iM 


l.'l 


.<154.S2I 



91 



05 



44 



33 



56 



00 



99 



So 
13 



32 



Nov. 30. 



Dec. 31. 



Over 

To property, minor expense account, etc.... 

" Tool and implement account 

" Improvement and construction account. 

By warrants on County Treasurer 

To pay roll (November) 

" Improvement and construction account. 

" Tool and implement account 

" Expense and minor expense account 

" Payroll (December) 

By warrants on County Treasurer 



$154,821 

3,388 

1,503 

14,360 

12,519 

29,091 

111 

4,309 

5,851 



$154,821 



19,251 



51,884 



$225,957 50 $225,957 50 



13 



77 



60 



STATEMENT NO. 3. 

DETAILS OF REVENUE FROM THE PARK AND ITS EXPENDITURE. 



1875. 
May 21. 

31. 
June 14. 

30. 

30. 
July 12. 

31. 

31. 
Aug. 31. 

31. 
Sept. 30. 

30. 
Oct. 15. 

31. 

31. 
Nov. 30. 

30. 

30. 

30. 
Dec. 31. 

31. 



By discharges, voucher No. 1. 

To sale of wood , 

By discharges, voucher No. 2 

To sale of Wittenberg house 

To sale of wood 

By discharges, voucher No. 3 

To sale of hay 

To sale of wood 

To pound receipts 

To sale of wood 

To sale of old lumber 

To sale of wood 

By expense account, voucher No. 4 

To sale of hay and grass 

To sale of wood 

To rent of boarding house 

To sale of wood.... 

To pound receipts 

To St. Louis, Kansas City & Northern Railroad 

By discharges, voucher No. 5 

By cash on hand 



$62 

75 
11 

7 
385 

6 

10' 

10 

572 

121 

146 

50 

13 

4 

359 



$1,931 



$62 
86 



50 
00 

00 



192 



1,573 
10 

$1,931 



00 



30 
66 



33 



STATEMENT NO. 4. 
SUMMARY. 



RECEIPTS. 

By warrants No. 1-276 

By wood and hay sold 

By rent collected 

By St. Lonis, Kansas City & Northern Railroad 

EXPENDITURKS, 

To exijenses paid by warrants 

To expenses paid from receipts of sales 

To cash belonging to Public School Fund 



$225,957 

1,921 

10 



$227,889 



16 



$225,957 

1,511 

50 

359 



50 
48 
00 



$227,889|16 



CHAS. BLAND SMITH, 

Seei'ctary. 



34 



PROPERTY RETURN OF GENERAL OFFICE. 



3 Desks. 
1 Table. 

10 Chairs. 

76 Yards carpet. 

1 Clock. 

1 Letter press. 

1 Bucket. 

1 Washstand. 

1 Bowl and pitcher, etc. 

4 Tamblers. 
1 Hatchet. 

1 Carriage. 

1 Wagon. 

2 Horses. 

3 Blanketa. 
2 Halters. 
2 Erasers. 

4 Inkstands. 



2 Stoves and fixtures. 

6 Towels. 

2 Office seals. 

4 Spittoons. 

1 Waste basket. 

1 Looking glass. 

1 Iron safe. 

1 Lounge. 

1 Water cooler. 

1 Ladder. 

1 Cash box. 

1 Sprinkling can. 

2 Dusters. 

1 Pair shears. 
1 Ruler. 
1 Ruling pen. 
6 Paper weights. 



APPENDIX B 



REPORT 



OF THE 



Superintendent Sf ^and^cape^ardener. 



St. Louis, January \st, 187G. 

To THE Honorable ANDREW McKINLEY, 

President of the Board of Commissioners of Forest Park. 

I have the honor, herewith, to submit the first annual report of 
the Superintendent and Landscnpe Gardener's department of Forest 
Park; also a tabular statement of all the employes of this department, 
their occupation and time employed, and amounts paid for the same. 
An inventory of all the property held in trust by this department 
is also added. 

On the fifteenth day of April last, ground was formally broken 
by yourself, and active operations commenced, with a force of three 
hundred laborers. 

A public enterprise, for years the subject of animated debate, 
was thus fiiirly inaugurated, the full realization of which will, at no 
far distant day, become a most important link in the chain of modern 
improvements which is to encircle the great Metropolis of the 
Mississippi Valley. 

Your Honorable Board, together with many of the Park's most 
ardent friends, have started this enterprise with the rational supposi- 
tion that a comparatively .small amount of treasure, entirely inadequate 
for the completion of an extensive park, when judiciously expended, 
can transform a tract of land, so richly endowed by the hand of 
nature, into a natural forest Park of great attraction, inviting, not 
in years to come only, but from this day forward, the masses of the 
populous city of St. Louis, to spend the holidays of the summer 
season beneath its majestic canopy of shade, and to breathe, on some 
occasions at least, the pure and undefiled atmosphere of the wood- 
lands and the meadows. The programme adopted for all preliminary 
operations has strictly tended to the attainment of this object. 

Remembering that the Park tract was made up from a variety 
of forests, commons, dairies, orchards, coal mines and cultivated 



40 

fields, it will be readily understood that the operations of the first 
few months, were purely of a pioneering, rough and ready nature. 
Old orchards, division fences, barns and shanties, together with many 
ofi'ensive nuisances surrounding them, disappeared in quick succession. 
The woods and open grounds were cleared of stumps, and the debris 
of timber, and columns of smoke and fire, indicated to the surround- 
ing country, the precise location of the future Park. 

To establish a general line of communication with all the various 
sections of the park, the river and main ravines had to be bridged 
over in different directions, and road-ways were opened to disclose 
the many inviting scenes of the uplands and the valleys. These 
preliminary drives, of some six miles in length, were graded suffi- 
ciently to secure a smooth and easy passage throughout the greater 
portion of the grounds. 

These labors occupied the working force for nearly four months, 
being, however, greatly impeded by the incessant rains of the past 
season. The residt was fully satisfactory, in so far at least, as it 
opened a Forest Park, de facto, to the public, of whose existence and 
location the greater majority of our citizens had been unaware 
before. 

To judge from the daily attendance, increasing rapidly, from 
month to mouth, it would seem that the Park has gained in popu- 
larity very rapidly. The happy selection of the grounds, and the 
untiring energy and perseverance of the projectors and advocates of 
this public enterprise, has frequently been acknowledged and com- 
mended by many, who, but recently, had entertained bitter prejudices 
against the Park. 

Whilst this "clearing of the tract" was being performed to 
prepare the way for permanent improvements, the Engineer Depart- 
ment was industriously engaged in topographical surveys, and in 
compiling a general map, showing the conformation of the ground, 
in minute detail. Since the completion of this important work, 
operations have been conducted in the usual .systematic routine, 
made possible only by accurate calculations. 



41 

The leading approach roails into the interior of the Park from 
north and south, have received tlie foremost attention, both lines 
being fully graded, and ready for construction. The principal lines 
of drives throughout the interior of the Park, already chosen in 
accordance to the conformation of the ground, cleared of timber 
and obstructions, have undergone a minute survey, and many sections 
thereof are finally graded and established. 

The report of the Chief Engineer will show the extent of this 
important branch of the work performed up to the pre.sent time. 

The grading, shaping and preparing of broad acres of lawn, has 
in like manner, occupied a great portion of the laboring forces. The 
cultivated fields of the Forsyth Farm have been properly prepared 
and seeded. The same has been done to many of the slopes along 
the line of the graded drives, as well as to a number of unsightly 
and neglected spots. Fully one hundred acres of lawn are thus 
prepared, awaiting only the return of spring to show forth the newly 
arranged dress of mother earth. 

Large quantities of material, necessary for the filling and grading 
of the lawns, have been obtained from extensive slopes, made on 
the river banks, and also by the excavation of two lakes, made in 
the low lands of the north-eastern part of the Park. 

The force of carpenters has been engaged in the construction of 
seven bridges across the river, of seventy to one hundred feet in 
length ; and of five smaller viaducts over ravines. A commodious 
frame house, temporarily used for the accommodation of the laboring 
men, two sheds for carriages in rear of the restaurant, one large 
shed for the use of the Mounted Police, one rustic shed for carriages 
and one stable have also been erected by this force. 

Your Honorable Board has ordered the construction and motaliz- 
ing of neai'ly four miles of drives, extending to almost the centre 
of the Park. This work is in full course of execution. The detailed 
account, relating to drainage, guttering and construction, being under 
the charge of the Chief Engineer, will apjiear in his rejwrt. In 
like manner, will the construction of the Pbailroad viaducts and 
tunnel be reported. 
F 



42 

Mention may also be made of the Restaui'ant and the Park 
Office Building ; both structures are, however, under the direct 
charge of a Building Committee appointed by the Honorable Board 
of Commissioners, and, therefore, outside of the province of the 
Superintendent. 

The several officers of this department have greatly assisted the 
Superintendent by the faithful performance of their several duties; 
the decorous behavior of the laboring men deserves special mention. 
The recollection of the many busy days in the field this season is 
marred only by one sad accident, causing the instant death of one 
esteemed laborer. 

THE PA R K, 

Covering an area of over two square miles, is a tract of land favored 
very distinctly by the designing hand of nature. A natural forest 
extends in great variety of scenery over one thousand acres. This 
forest has escaped, accidentally, providentially perhaps, the woodman's 
axe, which, in the name of modern improvement, is too apt to destroy 
the time-honored groves around the great cities of our land. 

Its scenic characteristic is a true type of the western woodland 
prairie, whose graceful, gently undulating lines, are distinctly contrasted 
with the bolder forms of scenery found in other places, impressing the 
mind with a pleasant air of repose, rather than with exalted admiration. 
The surrounding country, seen from many elevated points of view, is 
prairie like, Init greatly diversified by many forest-covered elevations, 
dotted in all directions with signs of life and improvement, denoting 
the close proximity of a mighty city. The inside scenery is attractive 
and intricate in the extreme, consisting of an uninterrupted variety of 
groves and lawns, of valleys and wood-embowered hillsides. A wild 
and uncontrollable prairie stream, sufficiently strong to float a stern- 
wheel steamer at certain times, at others almost devoid of water, 
traverses in a strangely meandering line of four miles in length, the 
area of the Park. A line of gently rising bluffs, covered in greater 
part with a luxuriant forest growth, follows the southern and western 



43 

shores of this river, dividing the forest-covered uplands from the low- 
lands of the valley. The Park is, therefore, naturally divided into three 
distinct jnrts, the characteristics of which control, in great measure, 
all contemplated plans of improvement : these are, the upland plateaus 
south of the river, the valley meadows extending along its northern 
shores, and the river valley forming the eastern portion of the Park, 
bordered both east and west Ijy higher elevations. 

A turnpike, the Clayton Road, traverses the south-eastern corner, 
to the great annoyance of the interests of the Park. This public 
highway, it is confidently hoped, will be removed to the outside, 
at no fiir distant day. Union Avenue, formerly a popular drive 
through the forest, from north to south, has already exchanged its 
former offensive course, with a new and graceful line, following the 
natural depressions of the ground. 

The Park is bounded on its eastern front by King's Highway, 
the oldest landmark of the former territory of Louisiana, and 
situated one and a half mile west of the present corporate limits of 
the city. This Avenue is the terminus of several of the most central 
thoroughfares of the city, making it the principal entrance to the 
Park. Before many years will have passed by, the improvements of 
the city will e.xtend to this grand entrance, and furnish the usual 
lines of communication with all parts of the city. For the present, 
the masses of the people will reach the Park by three railroad lines: 
the Missouri Pacific, at the south; the St. Louis, Kansas City & 
Northern ; and the West-end Narrow Gauge Railroads, on the 
northern side. 

THE FOREST GROWTH 

Is made up of a great variety of trees, and shrubs, and climbing 
vines. The surface of the gi'ound is covered with the luxuriant 
grasses of the meadow and the forest, and liberally enlivened by wild 
flowers. 

The upland forests are maile up principally of the family of oak 
and hickory. The richer soils of slopes and valleys produce a far 
greater variety of trees and shrubs, a list of which is given below. 



44 

The undergrowth of some localities of the forest is peculiarly inter- 
esting, forming, in connection with far-spreading vines, a wild and 
pleasing native scenery of its own. The river valley is ornamented 
by many gigantic specimens of the elm, the sycamore, the maple, 
Cottonwood and other trees. 

LIST OF INDIGENOUS TREES AND SHRUBS FOUND IN FOREST PARK 
IN ITS PRIMITIVE STATE. 

Quercus Alba White Oak. 

" Tinctoria .Bl.ick Oak. 

Rubra Red Oak. 

Coccinea Scarlet Oak. 

" Bicolor Swamp White Oak. 

Pnlustris Pin Oak. 

" Nigra Black Jack. 

Irabricaria Laurel Oak. 

" Macvocarpa Bur Oak. 

Obtusiloba Post Oak. 

Aquatica , Water Oak. 

" Ilicifolia Black Scrub Oak. 

Carya Alba Shell-bark Hickory. 

" Microcarpa Small Fruited Hickory. 

" Tomentosa Mockernut. 

" Amara Bitternut. 

Juglaus Nigra Black Walnut. 

" Cinerea Butternut. 

Platanus Occidentalis Sycamore. 

Ulmus Americana White Elm. 

" Fulva Slippery Elm. 

" Racemosa Corky Elm. 

Acer Dasycarpum Silver Maple. 

" Rubrum Swamp Maple. 

Negundo Aceroides Ash-lcaved Maple. 

Aesculus Glabra Buckeye. 

Betula Nigra Red Birch. 

Tilia Americana Linden. 

Populus Monilifera Cotttmwood. 

Fraxinu.s Viridis Green Ash. 

Quadrangulata Blue Ash. 

Sambucifolia Black Ash. 



45 

Gymnoclaihis Canadensis Kentucky Coffee Tree. 

Gleditscliia Triacantlios Honey Locust. 

Monosperma Water Locust. 

Morus Rubra Red Mulberry. 

Celtis Occidental is Hackberry. 

Nyssa Muitiflora Sour Gum. 

Prunus Serolina Wild Cherry. 

" Americana. Wild Plum. 

Cercis Canadensis Red Bud. 

Sassa fras Officinale Sassai'ias. 

Asimina Triloba Papaw. 

Salix Fragilis Brittle Willow- 

" Nigra Black Willow. 

" Hurailis Prairie Willow. 

Pyrus Coronaria Crab Apple. 

Crataegus Tomentosa Black Thorn. 

" Coccinea Red-fruited Thorn. 

Rhus Typhiua Sumach. 

Rhamnus Lanceolatus Buck Thorn. 

Evonimus Americana Strawberry Bush. 

Sambucus Canadensis Elder. 

■ Cornus Florida Floweriug Dogwood. 

" Paniculata .• Dogwood. 

Hydrangea Arborescens 

Ribes Grossularia Wild Gooseberry. 

Rosa Setigera Prairie Rose. 

Rubus Strigosus Wild Raspberry. 

" Villosus Blackberry. 

" Canadensis Dewberry. 

Symphoncarpus Vulgaris Indian Currant. 

Gorylus Americana Hazelnut. 

Vitis Labrusca Wild Vine. 

Ampelopsis Quinquefolia Virginian Creeper. 

Celastrus Scandens Staff Tree. 

Smilax Rotundifolia Green Briar. 

Rhus Toxicodendron Poison Vine. 

THE GENERAL PLAN 

Has been the subject of much study and reflection. The deep interest 
taken by the President during the whole of the past year, in constant 
consultation with the Chief Engineer and the Landscape Gardener, 



46 

has greatly assisted the decisive adojition of the basis of the jn-esent 
plan. Your Honorable Board has very wisely preferred natural 
considerations and rational judgment, to richly colored plans on paper. 
Topics of general necessity have received your foremost attention. 
The improvement of the eastern front, the railroad traversing the 
grounds, its viaducts and tunnel, the drives and leading lines of com- 
munication, including all necessary bridges and other structures; all 
these considerations have in succession received the attention of your 
Honorable Board, and various detailed plans' have been adopted. 
Their combination forms a frame work upon which the public of St. 
Louis can build a superstructure, commensurate with the future 
greatness of their city. For the present, the Board of Commissioners 
is striving to create, with a small outlay, a Park, perfect and reason- 
ably attractive as a whole, though' in its infancy in point of execution 
and final finish. A successful solution of this problem should fully 
satisfy the" intelligent portion of the people, and should surely pacii'y 
the oiiposition, made generally against all tiim'ly ]iulilic improvements, 
in the pretended name and interest of the oppressed and much- 
abused tax-payer. 

In compiling the general plan of improvement, embracing the 
treatment of all localities and interests of the Park, the Landscape 
Gardener has been guided by two objective points of view. First, 
to create as great a variety of scenery as the grounds will admit of; 
and second, to introduce a reasonable numlier of features of attrac- 
tion, i\ot only such as are calculated to amuse, but also those which 
will instruct and improve the puV)lic mind. Suggestions in tliis 
direction, requiring for their i-ealization large sums of money, will 
undoubtedly be viewed by many as the futile dream of a wild 
imagination. Their mention, however, can do no harm, and may, 
perhaps, awaken some interest in the study of the various channels 
through which the masses of over-crowded cities might receive that 
healthful recreation, exercise and amusement, wliicii is most beneficial 
to the welfare of the mind and body. 




fhotQ-Engr. 



C.A Dry J.I.' >: liwU. M^ 



47 

DETAILS OF THE PLAN. 

The con fornication of the ground suggests most forcibly the choice 
of locations most suitable to the pursuit of various enjoyments. The 
eastern portion of the Park, directly connected with all the lines of 
public conveyance, and nearest to the city, will ever be the congre- 
gating and rambling grounds of the masses who frequent the Park 
on certain days and occasions. The valley grounds — a wide and open 
meadow — commanding a magnificent panoramic view of the Park, are 
most favorably adapted to the interests of a sociable and sportive 
drive. The sliade.s of the forests will naturally attract the masses 
of the people on the occasions of festivals and picnics, and also offer 
more retired drives, especially during the hours of sunshine and 
oppressive heat. 

THE RAMBLING GROUNDS. 

In reality, the front ground of the Park is intended to be 
improved and ornamented in the most elaborate manner. Its various 
pedestrian paths and promenades will lead the visitor to many places 
of attraction. The grand fountain and the Sylvan lake, surrounded 
by verdant lawns, will be the leading features of this valley. The 
forest groves and lawns, in its centre, are set apart for Young 
America, and destined to be the special point of attraction to the 
youth, who will find no small amount of amusement on play grounds 
properly fitted out and guarded. A variety of rustic houses, covered 
seats and little temples should here be erected. 

The floral promenade is locn.ted on the summit of this section. 
It contains a central carriage promenade, with pedestrian walks on 
either side; the space of twenty-five feet between these roads, is 
calculated for the finest display of the treasures of the Goddess 
Flora. A variety of fine statuary and blooming vases might here 
be displayed to great advantage. 

The western side of the west promenade is calculated to be 
shaded by a rustic, overhanging canopy, provided with seats overrun 
by roses and other flowering climbers. The eastern slope of this 



48 

elevated ground is well adapted to be the site of a grand conserva- 
tory, iu whose interior the lovely scenery of the tropics may be 
enjoyed; adjoining tlus conservatory, imagination has placed the 
aquarium, long promised to the public by the Commissioners of 
Lafayette Park. 

The northern terminus of this floral promenade is designed to 
be a temple of music; the southern end thereof is reserved for a 
building site, on which an elegant museum, of art and science, may 
sonie day be erected. The gentle valley west of this promenade is 
most admirably suited for the keeping and display of interesting 
foreign animals. 

The front approach or Boulevard, along King's Highway, has a 
carriage way of sixty feet in width ; two strips of lawn twenty feet 
wide divide these different roadways from each other, in which a row 
of lofty growing shade trees will be planted. Various spaces have 
been designed, along the course of this Boulevard, to receive the 
montuni'iits. which may, in time, be erected to the memory of the 
great men of the West. This front should ever be distinguished 
by elegance of finish and keeping, and should lie brilliantly lighted 
during the early hours of the night. 

The ramble grounds should contain a full c<illecli<in of the most 
desirable trees, shi'ub.-j and flowers, which, when grouped in becoming 
oi-iler, would form an arboieluin, highly iniei'esting to the lover of 
boi-tic'ulture. 

THE DRIVING GROUNDS 

Have various, most attractive features, bidding fair to make them the 
most popular section of the Park. A fast drive, or llippodrotne, of one 
mile ill circumference, is here laid out, and designed in accordance with 
the most approved rules of the turf. 

The Lake will occupy some twenty-five acres of the lowest grounds. 
An(jther Temple of Music, of exquisite design, will be erected forth- 
with near its shore. A Lake-drive, encircling the .southern boundary 
of the water, will lend a peeiiliar charm to pleasui'e driving. The 



49 

central point of attraction will bo ibuiul in tlie Grand Concourse con- 
necting the Hippodrome with the Lake. From tliis Terrace a distant 
cascade will be seen, pouring its foaming waters, from one of the most 
elevated points, into the basin of the Lake. 

A Restaurant, located in this section, will dispense rcfreshmonts to 
the weary. 

THE UPLAND FORESTS AND PLAY GROUNDS, 

Embracing by far the greatest space of the gi'ounds, should, in great 
part, be preserved in their present country-like simplicity, " where 
every shaggy bush and spreading tree proclaims the seat of native 
liberty." 

To many visitors, quite tired of the stereotyped restraints of City 
Parks, these forest groves and lawns will be a true relief. As places 
dedicated to festivals and play, they are invaluable to the people of 
St. Louis. 

It may not be extravagant to predict, that many an ardent friend 
of Forest Park, into whose hands in future years its interests may be 
intrusted, will here be educated. The merriest days of boyhood are 
generally longest remembered in after years, and their due weight will 
be felt amongst the rising generation of this city. 

Large and commodious rustic structures should be erected in the 
interior of the forests, for the convenience and shelter of pic-nic parties. 

The south-west portion of the Park is a thick and gloomy forest. 
Li its interior, a Deer Park and ample stable room for domestic ani- 
mals, is proposed. The sheep, so necessary for the grazing of extensive 
Parks, will here find a retired home. 

Ample provision for the keeping of a herd of superior milch cows 
should be made, in connection with the sheep-fold. The product of 
-pure, milk, derived from such an establishment, might be dispensed at 
fair rates to visitors. A model Daiiy Restaurant, plain and country- 
like, could be established, which would undoubtedly prove quite popu- 
lar with the masses of visitors. The rural part of this Park is indeed 
not perfect without this feature. And this healthful refreshment, par- 
taken by many family groups, will never endanger its moral reputation. 

G 



50 

But, independent of this consideration, it cannot be doubted that a' 
system which would convert a portion of this immense domain of 
pasture into a productive model Dairy, would materially add to the 
funds required for the maintenance of the Park. 

The river bluffs in this section present several commanding points 
of view of the far-off distance. A Prospect Tower, or Observatory, 
will undoubtedly be here erected at some future day. Imagination has 
designed for the crest of one of the most prominent points, a Miniature 
Castlo, in the style of the middle ages, which might appear as a ruin ; 
or in its original design. This type of scenery, so characteristic to all 
European rivers, should not be missing in Forest Park. How boldly 
it would overlook the broad expanse of scenery along the Mississippi ! 
How many pleasant recollections of travels in foreign lands, and 
thoughts of home scenes by the Rhine, or by the Shannon, would it 
awaken in many a breast ! 

DRIVES. 

The system of drives has been designed with a view to approach 
and disclose all points of interest and attraction. The trunk line, 
called the Grand Drive, encircles the entire area of the Park. Its 
general width has been established to forty left, except in some loca- 
tions, where greater width is required. 

It has been objected, that this width is not equivalent to the 
requirements of a grand Park. This objection is answered by two 
obvious reasons. First : the drive commands so great a variety of 
scenery, and touches upon features of attraction, so fai' apart fi-om 
each other, that it is not reasonable to pr(?snme that a majority of 
vehicles will move at the same time in one given direction, as is the 
case on the Gala Drives of other Parks, quite differently situated, 
where naturally greater space is needed. Second : in opening the lines 
through the forests, a great nuinlier of valuable trees has, of necessity, 
been sacrificed, admitting glaring .sunsliine, where, but recently, a 
pleasant shade was enjoyed. With a greater width of drives, this loss 
of shade would have been far more disastrous — a considei'ation worthy 
of great weight, in a climate so lamoBS for oppressive heat as that of 
St. Louis. 



51 

The Drives, in many places, are provided with spacious openings 
(concourses), which serve as congregating and resting phxces, from 
which the most attractive views can be enjoyed. 

A liberal provision for shelter from sudden storms should be made 
in their midst, or conveniently near to them. Many sections of drives, 
especially those on the dry upland soils, will remain mere surface roads, 
preferable by far to metal roads. 

PEDESTRIAN ROADS. 

The system of pedestrian roads is confined to the most necessary 
lines of communication only, presuming that unrestrained ramble, over 
lawns and through the groves, will ever be conceded to the public. 

The greater portion of walks is designed throughout the eastern 
part, where their constant use is most obvious. 

Retired paths have been projected along the River Blutf and 
through the principal ravines. Pedestrian roads, running parallel with 
the lines of Drives, as met with in many other Parks, have not been 
adopted. The musing pedestrian visitor maj^ delight in the excitement 
and animation of the drive, but does not care to contrast hi.s walking 
capacity with the trot of his neighbor's hoi-se. 

The obstinate absence of visitors on foot from many of the Driving 
Parks, would seem to verify the above assertion. < A certain degree of 
unmole.'^ted privacy has therefore been observed throughout. 

The width required for these walks will vary greatly, in accordance 
with location. The prominent and most frequented lines should have 
a width of i'rom fifteen to twenty feet; retired paths may range from 
six to fifteen feet in width. 

SCENERY. 

Planting, grading, sodding and I'oad making, is cormiionly called 
Landscape Gardening. Treatment of matter, however, can only shape 
the body of a certain piece of ground. Congruous union and rational 
separation, in other words, becoming arrangement, infuses a soul or 
creates the .scenery. An indiscriminate display of objects, lines or 



52 

figures, may excite the admiration most generally bestowed by curi- 
osity, but fails to satisfy the mind, so strangely vibrating with the 
pulse of Nature. 

The mysterious "something still diviner than mere language can 
impart ;" those traits of Nature, attracting most forcibly the sympa- 
thies of our mind — this is what we are accustomed to call beauty, or 
the beautiful. 

A clear comprehension of the principles of this beauty, and its 
many counterfeits, together with a harnuinious application and aissocia- 
tion of the same, we express by tlie words, correct taste. 

The faculty to reproduce that beauty, in an endless variety of com- 
binations, whether expressed in tones, designed in lines and color.s, or 
carved in marble, is called "Art" or " Fine Art." 

Scarcely a century has elajtsed since Horticulture, the useful agent 
in the decoration of groun<l.s, has discovered this real source from 
whence to draw its ideas of design. Exchanging the conceptions of 
the past centuries, founded only on mere imagination and caprice, for 
the simple essence of Nature's beauties, a new art ha,s made its appear- 
ance, which is called the art of Landscape Gardening. 

Its principles, when properly applied in the improvement of Forest 
Park, will produce a variety of scenery well worthy of comparison with 
the pleasing features of many of the modern Parks. 

A single glance over the varied scenery of the Parle, will convince 
the thoughtful observer of tlie iinj)erative necessity of jealous caution 
to preserve, and of boldness to fully develop, the marked advantages of 
the grounds. Nature has surely stamped upon them her choicest traits 
of beauty ; but accident has left them in an uniinished condition. To 
remove the marring tones, and to unite the really beautiful elements 
into one harmonious whole, is the task which the art of Landscape 
Gardening has to fullill. Expression and character of scenery is con- 
ditioned by a proper balanci; of wood and lawn, of light and shade, of 
form and color. Witho\it distinctness of outline and clearness of form, 
no scene of beauty can be formed. Pleasing variety is not attained by 
a capricious mixing up of objects, but by a judicious separation and 
union of the same. Applyisg these rational axioms of Landscape 



53 

Gardening to many parts of Forest Pai'k, it will be readily understood 
that both axe and spade have an important mission to I'uUill. Various 
groves of timber, and many single trees, obstructing the most desirable 
views, concealing the finest contours of the ground, and confusing the 
harmonious clearness of the lawns, must simply be abated without 
mercy. No plea of loss of shade should be listened to in this connec- 
tion. The straight outlines of the woods, arising from the former 
division of the land, must be boldly broken, and scattered timbers, 
covering unmeaningly considerable extents of ground, must be trans- 
formed into distant clumps and groves. Where views of distant parts 
arc desirable, judicious trimming of undergrowth and lower branches 
must be resorted to. This necessary and indispensable cutting down 
of timber is often viewed with real sorrow by many a lover of the 
forest, and mistaken as a heartless destruction, for which the improver 
deserves severe reproof. We are prepared to meet these well-meant 
frowns with perfect resignation, until the scenery of the Park is freed 
from its many traits of accidental confusion. 

The principle which governs a judicious selection of foliage must 
direct the operations of planting, and of adding new groups where they 
are needed, to produce variety and pleasing contrasts. The strange 
mistake of planless and sceneless planting, so sadly practiced in many 
of the so-called ornamental grounds of St. Louis, if introduced into 
Forest Park, would be ruinous and ridiculous. Grand forest groves 
and their surrounding lawns will not be improved by the addition of a 
confused mass of shrubbery, thrown capriciously around and over them. 
Such groves, standing out in bold relief, must be met by well-calculated 
masses, contrasting them in tbrm and foliage. A great diversity of 
effects of tints and color, and of light and shade, can in this wise be 
created ; and this variety is the principle which distinguishes the 
scenery of a park from the scenery of the woods. But pleasing 
harmony, when visible everywhere, becomes splendid monotony in the 
end, unless relieved here and there by bold and striking contrasts. 
A gradual or even sudden change from the devious forest into a scene 
of pines and other evergreens will be admired by even the most 
thoughtless wanderer. This striking change of scener}' is provided 



54 

for in several of the most commanding localities of the Park. The 
finely-wooded elevations along the river are, in various localities, boldly 
interrupted by a bluiT of pines. A leading concourse of roads, near 
tlie southern boundary, is confronted in all directions by heavy masses 
of evergreens, through which the vistas open into the forest. A drive, 
winding its gloomy way through the western forest, dashes the visitor, 
quite suddenly, into the midst of a dense pine forest, from which a 
broad view is open to the valley below, extending into a prairie view to 
the far-off skies. 

Peculiar contrasts are calculated for th^ various ravines. The one 
will be the emblem of the Cypress forest ; another of the graceful 
Hemlock; a third may bear the character of the Fii'. Contrasts, 
appearing in succession on a drive of miles in length, will be quite 
pleasant episodes in this forest scenery. 

I cannot but express the heartfelt wish that the good sense of the 
public will never permit the shocking practice of setting out numbers 
of evergreens, promiscuously, amongst the forest trees and through 
t!i(.' woods. Such crude ideas of the art of Landscape Gardening shuuld 
be kept away from Forest Park. 

The ornamentation of the open grounds of the eastern section is 
somewhat ditferent from the treatment of the forests. A purely horti- 
cultui'al style, the so-called Gardenesque, will here prevail. The 
groupings will be made up of thr most desiralile trees and orna- 
mental shrubbery, and are designed to bo arranged to display the 
most pleasing outlines and effects. 

The embankment of the railroad is calculated to be summarily 
planted out of sight, masked by groups, allowing the swiftly-passing 
traveler only occasional glimpses into the interior of the Park. The 
shady recesses formed by the river blulf having a secluded northern 
aspect, are admirably adapted to the growth of many of the I'arer ever- 
greens, ferns and alpine plants, which, in chy and sunburnt locations, 
are entirely out of question ; and many pretty little scenes can here 
be formed, attractive to the thoughtful wanderer, and highly intei-est- 
ing to the connoisseur in Botany and Arburiculture. 



y/r ri"o-7 /''•'■J' ^rr.jTD j-"/-'//-o^<'v^ 




55 

The rich alhivial soils of the i-iver valley are peculiarly adapted for 
many of the most desirable trees, flourishing bitt seldom in this locality. 
The Linden, the Flowering Horse Chestnut, the Mountain Ash, the 
Norway Maple, and many others, can here be grown to perfection. 

The wide-spreading lawns of the valley will be but very sparingly 
interspersed with trees. 

The projected cascade is designeil to be the great point of attraction 
to the lover of the romantic and picturesque. It will form a deep 
recess in the bluff, and will be wrapped in a rocky and mountainous 
character all around. It is sincerely hoped that vour Honorable Board 
will endow this project with a fund sufficiently liberal for its full reali- 
zation, remembering thai true relaxation to the town-ridden and busy 
mind, is only found in the embrace of nature and her handiwork. The 
people of St. Loui.s will not seek the shades of a distant park to admire 
cut stone, French roofs and oddly painted summer houses, but to enjoy 
that which the city cannot offer. 

The I'ustic arbor, the over-hanging rock, and the dashing waterfall, 
can boast of hosts of friends at any time, and funds expended in their 
creation is always money well applied. 

ATTRACTIONS. 

While engaged in the improvement of Lafavette Park, I have 
often had an opportunity to study the sources from which different 
visitors derive amusement best suited to their mind. Taking, as an 
example, a group of flowers and a group of rock work. The bed of 
flowei's, however showy, may be seen passed by, almost unnoticed, by 
a party of elegant ladies, wliose admiration may be bestowed upon the 
group of r<jcks, covered carelessly by vines and blades of grass. A 
little family group of unpretending people, happening along, may be 
seen passing the rocks as beneath their notice, and hastening to 
surround the flower-bed, in full triumph of joy. 

Places of public recreation and amusement, to fulfill their true 
mission, must ofler enjoyment to all classes of society. The proper 
choice of a I'easonable variet}*i)f objects, to attain this end, is therefore 
a highly important consideration in the planning of a park, paid for 



56 

and supported by the populace at large. The oft-repeated objection, 
that Forest Park is designed for the rich who can afford to ride in 
carriages, can only be answered and disproved liv furnishing attrac- 
tions to all who seek a reasonable share of recreation. 

This subject, in connection with pubhc pai'ks, is attracting more 
attention at the present moment, than during the time when the first 
parks of the Eastern cities were established. 

The plan of Forest Park embraces several suggestions of objects of 
special interest to all classes of the public. 

Mention has been made of a Grand Conservatory, which might be 
erected on the eastern slope of the floral promenade — a location 
remarkably well protected from the west and north. A structure for 
this purpose might be designed, to consist of two divisions, the ti'opical 
and the temperate; the one the home of the Palm, the other the region 
of the Camelia Azalea and Accacia. The interior would contain no 
stage, nor benches, no tubs or flower pots, but would be a natural 
scenery of rocks, and ferns, and mosses, from, among which would 
spring forth a rare collection of e.xoties, extending wide their palmy 
leaves, or bending under a load of blossoms. 

A spacious gallery, capable of holding large numbers of people, 
should surround the entire scene, making the conservatory, at the same 
time, a sociable public hall, the glory of the Park in winter. The 
columns of the galleiy might be ornamented with a variety of beautiful 
cages, containing a chorus of feathered songsters, as well as birds of 
brilliant plumage. 

Imagination might as well go one step farther, and design, in ihe 
midst of this floral array, a noble statue, erected to the memory of 
Uiat generous citizen of St. Louis, who, from the surplus of his wealth, 
has erected this exquisite temple of enjoyment to his follow citizens, 
and to his and their posterity. This dream of imagination has its 
parallel of reality in our sister city of Cincinnati, which is graced by 
the finest fountain in the land, the gift of two of her generous inhab- 
itants. Shall wealth be ever more generous and ))hilanlhropic on the 
banks of the Ohio, than on those of the Mississippi, the greatest of 
all rivers? 



57 



ZOOLOGICAL COLLECTIONS 

of animals, both from this country and from distant continents, aro 
fast becoming the mania of our largest cities. Their introduction into 
the principal public parks, offering free access to all, is but a question 
of time. The noble example set by Central Park of New York, will 
be imitated in time in many cities. When under the auspices of a 
corporation, the entrance fee, though merely nominal, restricts their 
use and enjoyment to certain days and occasions, occurring but seldom 
and far apart; to many their philanthropic mission, as an institution 
of public instruction and amusement, is exchanged with the curiosity 
and excitement of a menagerie show. 

Whatever private enterprise may do to show the elephant and 
tiger in this city, the "People's Park" should not therefrom be the 
sufferer, by lacking so conspicuous an attraction as a zoological 
department. 

A spot reserved for an aquarium, near the contemplated conserva- 
tory, will be observed in the plan. An arched glass roof, displaying 
overhead the living wonders of the pool, the river and the ocean, 
receiving its rays of light through certain channels from above, would 
undoubtedly attract a crov/d at any time. 

The grounds west of the promenade are spacious enough to accom- 
modate a great variety of structures, designed for the keeping of many 
different animals. A rich collection of American animals could readily 
be obtained, at very little cost, from the famous hunting grounds of this 
State, the Western Plains, and the Rocky Mountains. Animals of a 
tamer nature, the deer, the stag, the antelope, and even the buffldo, in 
its infancy, requiring extensive pens and roaming grounds, might be 
kept in the interior of the western forest. 

Whatever may be done in this direction for the present time, allow 
me to suggest, in the name and interest of the youngsters of St. Louis, 
that a bear pit, of liberal dimensions, may be erected at an early day. 
This museum of cheap fun should be opened to the public from the very 
first. The combination of the richest treasures of Botany and the 
wonders of Zoology, would be the foundation of a museum of natural 

H 



58 

history, which, in coming generations, might grow as rich and famous 
as that of Paris or other European cities. 

A view to economy in construction,. and to ease and simplicity in 
maintenance and after-keeping of the Park, has guided the compiling 
of the plan throughout. Strangeness of design, or oddness in shape, 
whether of groups of shrubbery, or of flower beds, has not been 
attempted. Novelties, or rather copied antiquities of this description, 
are often introduced, but too soon, by new incoming administrations. 
The present plan, formally adopted by your Honorable Board, will 
undoubtedly be subjected to many changes before the whole area of the 
Park has received its final finish. Its fundamental features, in which 
the present administration is most particularly interested, when once 
laid down and established on the ground, have the protection, at least, 
of the magnitude of their .scale, and cannot be materially altered or 
undone at pleasure. 

The history of many of the smaller parks of this city has been 
marked by a strange diversity of opinion regarding their object and 
necessary improvement, and has, in consequence, been a continuoiis 
series of experiments, innocent in themselves, yet expensive to the 
j)ublic treasury, made so by the great variety of citizens who, from 
time to time, have conducted improvements under authority vested in 
Park Commissioners. A system of unrest and constant change, 
generally increased by the uncertainty of the result of every municipal 
election, has thus controlled the Park Fund guaranteed by the city 
charter by this .system. If introduced into the future management of 
Forest Park, no satisfactory results will repay the community for sums 
of treasure expended in its improvement. Stability of purpose should 
guide, above all other considerations, its destinies. 

The intelligence of the people only can carry this grand project to 
full and speedy r(>alization, and to this safeguard its far-reaching 
interests may safely be commended. 

I have the honoi- to be, respectfully. 

Your obedient servant, 

M. G. KERN, 
Superintendent and Landscape GarSmer. 



APPENDIX C. 



REPORT 



OF THE 



Engineer in Chief. 



Engineer's Office, Forest Park, 
St. Louis, January 1st, 1876. 
Col. ANDREW McKINLEY, 

President Board of Commissioners of Forest Park : 

Dear Sir : I beg leave to .submit the following report of operations 
in the Engineer's Department of Forest Park, to December 31st, 1875. 

SURVEYS. 

The surveys in Forest Park were made under the direction of my 
predecessor, Major Julius Pitzman, and were completed towards the 
end of August last. 

The entire area of the Pai'k was divided into squares of one hundred 
feet sides, by two sets of lines ; one running parallel to the northern 
boundary line of the Park, and the other at right angles thereto. 

The points of intersection of these two sets of lines were marked 
by stakes. 

The lines running parallel to the northern boundary line were 
designated by letters; the lines running at right angles to the north 
boundary, by figures. 

The stakes at the intersection points are marked by the figure and 
letter of the respective intei'secting lines, so that the distance of any 
object from any two of these stakes being measured, its precise location 
is at once determined, and can be transferred to the map. 

After the completion of the survey corner-stones were set at the 
corners of the boundar}' lines, eight in number. These stones are 
three feet long and one foot square, the top being dressed to a flat 
pyramid, and are set two feet deep in the ground. 

Stones, two and a half feet long and nine inches square, with flat 
tops, and grooved in the direction of the division lines and throughout 
the Park, at distances of one thousand feet, so that the wooden stakes 



64 

at tha intersection pDiat9 can readily be replaced if lost or destroyed. 
There are eighty-eight of these stones. 

Accurate levels were taken over both sets of lines, all eleva- 
tions being referred to the city directrix; and by means of these 
levels a map of the Parle has been constructed, showing the original 
conformation of the ground by contour lines at vertical distances of 
two feet. 

This map has been constructed by Mr. Theo. C. Linlc, who deserves 
great credit for the beauty and accuracy of the work. It is drawn on 
a scale of one hundred feet to an inch. 

Besides this map, a smaller one, on a scale of four hundred feet to 
the inch, has been drawn by Mr. Link, showing contour lines at 
vertical distances of five feet. Several hundred copies of this map have 
been struck off by lithographic process, for the use of the Commis- 
sioners, the Superintendent, and the Engineer Department. 

The area of the Park, as ascertained by Mr. Pitzman's surveys, is 
1,371.94 acres. The greatest elevation (at the south-west corner of 
the Park) is one hundred and eighty feet, the lowest (in the bed of 
the River des PSres, near the south-east corner) is twenty-nine feet 
above the city directrix. 

ROADS. 

The drives, which, according to the present plan, will be contained 
in the Park, iiave a total length of 19.66 miles. 

Of foot paths, 14.43 miles are projected. 

The drives and roadways in boulevards are to be from thirty to 
sixty feet in width. 

There will be : 

2.20 Miles of drives and roads in boulevards, 60 ft. wide. 

9.58 Miles of drives 40 " 

7.88 Miles of drives 30 " 



19.66 Miles. 



65 

Of footpaths, there are designed : 

2.82 Miles 30 ft. wide. 

7.31 Miles 20 " 

4.30 Miles 15 " 

14.43 Miles. 

Of the 19.66 miles of drives, 3.95 miles are now fully gi'aded, 8.21 
miles are partially graded, and 7.50 miles are proposed and partly 
located on the ground. 

No footpaths have as yet been graded or improved. 
The roads, which, by order of your Honorable Board, are to be 
provided with metal, have a total length of 3.93 miles, and form a 
circuit through the Park, connected with the north-east and south-east 
entrances. Of these 3.93 miles of drives, 

0.20 Miles are 60 ft. wide. 

3.40 Miles are 40 " 

0.33 Miles are 30 " 

GRADING. 

All grading of drives, with the exception of the boulevard along 
the eastern boundary line of the Park, has been done by the Park 
force. The approximate cost of this part of the work has been 
$31,500.00, and the approximate number of cubic yards of earth 
moved 105,000 cubic yards, as near as' can be ascertained from the 
data on hand. 

.The grading of th'e boulevard along the east boundary line, was 
by contract let to the lowest bidders, Jerry Fruin & Co., at 20J 
cents per cubic yard, including hauling. The total quantity to be 
excavated and hauled into embankment, is sixty thousand cubic yards. 
The average haul is one thousand four hundred feet. Forty-seven 
thousand cubic yards have been excavated to date. 

GUTTE RS. 

On all roads that are to be metaled, gutters will be constructed, 
except where the drives are carried on embankment. The gutters 
I 



66 

are two feet wide, with a dish of three inches in the center. The 
stones used for guttering, are fi'om two to three inches wide and 
from seven to ten inches in depth. 

The construction of the gutters was given out in contract to Ed. 
Burgess & Co., at $11.80 per square of one hundred feet. The total 
quantity required on the 3.93 miles of drives, will be four hundred 
and ninety-four squares, including the two hundred and six squares 
completed. 

INLETS. 

Inlets are placed on the line of the gutters at distances varying 
according to local conditions, from one hundred to three hundred 
feet. Those proposed to be built on the 3.93 miles of metaled 
drives, number one hundred and fifty-seven, and there are thirteen 
on other roads. 

These inlets are built of brick laid in cement mortar. They are 
square, 14" x 14" in the clear on top, and their foundations consist 
of large flat stones. They are provided with an iron border frame 
and grating on top. 

Seventy-five inlets have been built to date ; thirty-three of them 
by day labor, at a cost of $14.00 per piece, and the remaining forty- 
two under contract with W. J. Hegel, at a cost of $492.10, or an 
average of $11.71 for each inlet. 

The cast iron frames and gratings were furnished by Collins & 
HoUiday, at 3 cents per pound. One hundred and thirty-seven have 
been deUvered by them to date, at a total cost of $293.76. 

DRAINAGE OF ROADS. 

It has been observed, as a rule, to arrange the inlets and drains so 
as to carry the water to the nearest ravine or water-course by the 
shortest possible route. As in many cases it would have been too 
ex|)ensive to lay pipes from each inlet to the nearest natural water- 
course, drain-pipes are laid under the gutters (three feet under ground), 
which connect the inlets ; and at proper points the water from the 
lowest inlet is carried off by drain-pipes leading to the river or other 



67 

natural water-course. Besides the drain-pipes for those drives pro- 
vided with gutters, a large number of pipes must necessarily be laid 
on the roads partially graded. 

The following table shows the total length and size of vitrified clay 
pipe for drainage of di'ives, laid and remaining on hand to date : 



Size. 


Laid. 


Oh Hand. 


24 inches 


466 feet. 

888 feet. 

381 feet. 
1,420 feet. 

897 feet. 
1,552 feet. 
1,814 feet. 
1,713 feet. 

500 feet. 






144 feet. 




20 feet. 


12 inches 


40 feet. 


10 inches 


556 feet. 




230 feet. 


8 inches 

6 inches 


398 feet. 
372 feet. 


4 inches 










9,631 feet. 


2,260 feet. 



One hundred and ninety-five linear feet of eighteen inch cement 
pipe have been used for the same purpose. 

The total cost of these drain pipes, to date, is $3,819.42, and the 
pipes still required will cost $1,331.25. 

The pipes were laid by the Park force, as this seemed to insure 
more perfect work. The laying of same, and the ramming of soil 
around and over them, costs about six cents per linear foot. 



TRENCH ES. 

The digging of trenches was heretofore done under contract by 
Glaus Vieths. Up to date 16,040 Hnear feet of trenches have been 
excavated, at a cost of $493.67, and 19,660 linear feet still remain to 
be done. 

As the use of sand for the construction of gutters would have been 
very expensive, it was concluded to use in its place the refuse from the 



68 

old coal mines, abundantly found in the Park grounds, and which alsO' 
serves the purpose of preventing any vegetation springing up in the 
gutters. 

The loading, hauling and filling in of this material, was given out 
in contract to Claus Vieths, at ninety-four cents per cubic yard, and 
has cost, up to date, $3,777.33. The balance of this material neces- 
sary to complete all the guttering, will be handled by the Park force, 
and is estimated to cost about $2,500. 

MODE OF CONSTRUCTING ROADS. 

The material used for the construction of the metaled drives 
consists : 

I. Of a layer of rip-rap (five to six inches in diameter). 

II. Of the refuse from the coal mines, in sufficient quantity to 
fill the interstices between rip-rap. 

III. Of a layer of Macadam, 4 inches in height at the gutters, 
and in the center — 

8 inches high on 60 feet roads, 
6 " " " 40 " " and 

5 " " " 30 " " 

IV. Of a layer of gravel, extending the whole width of the road, 
2 inches high. 

The rip-rap is placed by hand — this work being done by the Park 
force, at a cost of about twenty-five cents per square of one hundred 
cubic feet. The refuse from coal mines is then spread, and is followed 
by the Macadam. After the latter has been spread the road is rolled, 
which operation is repeated after the gravel has been placed on the 
road. 

The contract for furnishing rip-rap and Macadam hiis been awarded 
to Chas. Slattery, at $3.30 per square (one hundi'ed cubic feet) for 
rip-rap, and $4.30 per square for Macadam. 



69 

Up to January 1st, 1876, he has delivereil — 
375 squares of rip-rap, and 

220 " " Macadam, at a total cost of $2,182.45. 
At a recent meeting, the Board of Commissioners has consented to 
increase the prices of Mr. Slattery's contract, from this date, to $3.70 
per square for rip-rap, and $4.90 per square for Macadam. 

The total quantity of rip-rap required on the 

0.20 miles of 60 feet road = 246 squares. 

3.40 " " 40 " " = 26,92 

0.33 " " 30 " " = 191 

Total 3,029 squares. 

The total quantity of Macadam required on the 

0.20 miles of 60 feet road == 737 squares. 

3.40 " " 40 " " = 2,513 

0.33 " " 30 " " = 152 

Total 3,402 squares. 

The quantity of gravel required on the 

0.20 miles of 60 feet road = 97 squares. 

3.40 " " 40 " " = 1,079 

0.33 " " 30 " " = 76 

Total 1,252 squares. 

There are now on hand in the Park one thousand three hundred 
and ninety-nine tons (about two hundred and thirty-three squares), 
of Paducah gravel, costing $3,223.90 on the levee. 

Contracts have been entered into with Tim Moraghan and the 
Manchester Gravel Company for fifty squares each of Glencoe gravel 
at $9 per square, and with C. Morschel for one hundred squares of 
Meramec gravel at $8.35 per square, delivered at railroad depot at 
Taylorwick. 

No gravel has as yet been delivered under these contracts as, 
owing to the slow delivery ot other road metal, we are not prepared 
to receive it. 



70 

The total cost of the 3.93 miles of drives, exclusive of grading, 
will be as follows : 

I. 491 squares of guttering @ ?11.80 $5,829.20 

II. 33 brick inlets " 14.00 462.00 

124 " " " 11.71 1,451.99 

III. 15,300 lbs. iron castings " 3c 459.00 

IV. Drain-pipes 5,150.67 

V. Laying of same, 11,891 linear feet @ 6c 713.46 

VI. Trenching 1,693.67 

VII. Hauling of coal refuse for trenches 6,277.33 

VIII. Ramming of same 400.00 

IX. 3029 squares of rip-rap 12,018.50 

X. Setting 3029 squares of rip-rap @ 2.5c 757.25 

XI. Hauling coal refuse over rip-rap 2,200.00 

XII. 3402 squares of Macadam 17,409.80 

XIII. Spreading 3402 squares of Macadam 340.20 

XIV. 233 squares of Paducah gravel... 3,223.90 

Hauling same from levee, 1399 tons @ 85c 1,189.15 

Distributing same in Park, 773 cubic yards, " 30c 231.90 

XV. 100 squares of Meramec- gravel 835.00 

100 " " Glencoe gravel 900.00 

819 " " gravel (yet needed) @ $9.00 7,371.00 

XVI. Hauling 1019 squares of gravel from R. R. 

depot " 1.65 1,681.35 

XVII. Rolling of roads 2,610.00 



Total §73,205.37 

The total cost of work done on these drives to date (exclusive of 
grading) amounts to — 

$19,529.68 
Leaving 53.675.69 yet to be expended. 



$73,205.37 
GENERAL DRAINAGE. 

The general drainage of Forest Park is not a very difficult 
problem, as the ground is broken by numerous ravines emptying into 
the River dcs Pferes ; and it is only on some of the lawns in the 
northern part of the Park that sub-drainage is required. 



71 

The following table shows the dimensions and total length of 
drain-pipe received and laid for this purpose : 

CEMENT PIPE. 



Dimensions. 


Received. 


Laid in Lawns. 


On Hand. 


18 inches 


1,101 lin. ft. 

547 lin. ft. 

915 lin. ft. 

747 lin. ft. 
1,937 lin. ft. 

575 lin. ft. 


909 lin. ft. 
537 lin. ft. 
915 lin. ft. 
747 lin. ft. 
1,367 lin. ft. 
153 lin. ft. 




15 inches 


10 Im. ft. 






9 inches 




6 inches... 


570 lin. ft. 
422 lin. ft. 








4,718 lin. ft. 





At a total cost of $1,245.33. 

Of clay pipes there were laid in lawns and between lakes : 

265 linear feet, 15 inches diameter, @ $1.00 |265 00 

@ 75c 870 00 

@ 60c 88 20 

@ 50c 100 00 

@ 40c 109 60 

@ 30c 48 90 



1,160 






12 


147 






10 


200 






9 


274 






8 


163 






6 


2,209 linear 


feet 




Less 40 per 


cent,... 





SI, 481 70 
. 592 68 



Net cost $889 02 



SEWER. 

Near the north-east corner of the Park a Ijrick sewer has been 
constructed six hundred and forty-five and a half feet in length and 
three feet in diameter. 

One hundred linear feet of this sewer were constructed by the 
Park force; the remainder under contract by W. J. Hegel, at $12.35 
per cubic yard. 



72 

The cost of it is as follows : 

100 linear feet constructed by day labor $ 432.50 

545.5 " " " under contract.... 2,203.61 



Total §2,636.11 

Of this amount $359.88 were refunded to the Park treasury by 
the St. Louis, Kansas City & Northern Railroad Company, being the 
cost of that portion of the sewer immediately under the railroad 
embankment and which the railroad company would have had to 
build for their own use. 

If this sewer is to be continued to the northern boundary line 
of the Park, it will require three hundred additional feet at a cost 
of 11,235. 

BRIDGES AND CULVERTS. 

There have been constructed to date eight road bridges, and two 
more are in course of erection. Also, three smaller bridges for 
pedestrian paths. 

In two places roads are carried across water courses by brick 
arches of seven and twenty feet span respectively. 

All the bridges are built of timber. 

The bridges built before September, 1875 (five in number), have 
timber foundations ; those built since then, are provided with stone 
abutments and piers. 

The following tables show dimensions, cost, etc., of the several 
bridges : 



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75 

These bridges are all completed with the exception of Nos. 7 and 8. 

For No. 7, the masonry is finished and the timher on hand. On 
No. 8, no work has been done, but the timlier is on the ground. 

The amount paid out to date is $19,120.88, and the work still 
unfinished and to be paid for on account of these bridges, amounts 
to $4,501. 

DESCRIPTION OF BRIDGES. 

A. BRIDGES WITH TIMBER FOUNDATIONS. 

These bridges consist of three or four bents of timber resting on 
heavy sills imbedded in the ground. The roadway which generally 
has a heavy camber, is carried by stringers which are formed by 
joists, framed and bolted together. The floor consists of two-inch 
plank. 

The railing of these bridges is of rustic design. 

On bridge No. 5, the stringers of the center span (fifty feet 
clear) are trussed. 

On bridge 6, which carries the road over a ravine with steep 
sides, Mr. Kern had a rustic archway constructed under the center 
span which, in hot weather, will form a cool retreat. The bottom of 
the ravine will be paved and provided with seats. On top of this 
bridge a light rustic house, with thatched roof, has been erected. 

B. BRIDGES WITH STONE FOUNDATIONS. 

The masonry of abutments and piers is being constructed under 
contract by Glaus Vieths at $5.74 per cubic yard. It consists of 
broken range rubble masonry, laid in cement mortar. There are to 
each bridge, two abutments extending the whole width of the road- 
way, and two lines of small piers, the tops of which are about two 
feet above the surface of the water and on which the wooden piers 
rest. 

On bridges Nos. 7 and 8, the abutments are provided with short 
wing walls and buttresses to resist the thrust of the superstructure. 



76 

Superstructure of bridge No. 1, consists of three lines of Howe 
trusses tliree feet high. The railing of this bridge, which corres- 
ponds with the design of the trusses, consists of bases with moulded 
caps, moulded handrail, and light chamfered braces. All woodwork 
of the railing is planed. 

Bridge No. 2 is constructed on a system similar to that of the 
briilges of the first class. Curved brackets and a handsome rustic 
railing serve to relieve the otherwise plain appearance of the structure. 

On bridge ' No. 3, piers and superstructure are formed of heavy, 
round pine timbers, with the bark left on. The railing is of riistic 
design. 

The superstructure of Nos. 7 and 8, consists of trussed arches. 

No. 7 is designed in rustic style — all timber being framed so as 
to leave the exposed faces round, and with the bark on. No. 8 is 
built of dressed timber. The railings of these bridges will corres- 
pond with the character of the superstructure. 

The designs for the second class of bridges, and for the ornamental 
railings, were made by Mr. 0. Gayler. 

The timberwork of all bridges, with the exception of Nos. 7 and 
8, is completed and was framed and erected under the superintendence 
of Herm. Schmidt, the boss carpenter. 

The framing and erecting of Nos. 7 and 8, which will be com- 
menced within a few days, has been given out in contract to the same 
gentleman. 

C. PEDESTRIAN BRIDGES. 

The four foot bridges, of small dimensions and simple design, were 
also built by Mr. Schmidt, and cost in the aggregate (for timber and 
work) §1000. 

To carry out the system of drives and walks, as adopted and laid 
down on the General Plan, two more bridges over the River des 
PSres and a number of small foot bridges, will have to be built ; but 
neither their location nor the plans have as yet been finally settled 
upon. 



77 



DESCRIPTION OF CULVERTS. 

The smaller one of these culverts consists of two abutments of 
rubble masonry and a semi-circular brick arch of seven feet S2)an with 
cut ring stones on each end face. Its total length is forty-five feet. 
It was built under contract by Jos. Haberstroh, at a cost of |566.66, 
inclusive of paving. 

The large culvert is of the same general design, but has a span 
of twenty feet. The arch consists of four rings of brick, and has 
ring stones at each end. Its total length is forty-five feet. Up to 
date the two abutment walls have been finished This culvert is 
also being built by Jos. Haberstroh, and its total cost will be about 
11,900. 

The dimensions of this culvert are much larger than would be 
required for the purpose of carrying off the water, but like the arch 
under bridge No. 6, it is to serve as a shady retreat for pedestrians, 
and as a passage for a footpath which winds along the edge of the 
ravine. 

RAILROAD. 

The St. Louis, Kansas City & Northern Railroad passes through 
the north-eastern corner of the Park in a total length of 3,880 feet; 
and to provide for the safe passage of vehicles and pedestrians across 
this line, several structures had to be designed. They consist of a 
tunnel under the East Boulevard and Barnes Avenue, a viaduct over 
the main entrance road, opposite Lindell Boulevard, and two passage 
ways for pedestrians. 

TUNNEL. 

The tunnel is designed for double track. It is to consist of two 
stone abutments, a center wall of stone, and two brick arches. The 
clear span of each arch at the spring will be fourteen feet six 
inches ; the clear height between extrados and top of rail will be 
sixteen feet six inches. 



The total length of the tunnel will be three hundred and fifty-nine 
linear feet. Of these, one hundred and fifty-three and one-half linear 
feet are to be constructed and paid for by the St. Louis, Kansas City 
& Northern Railroad Coni].iany, and the remaining two hundred and 
five and one-half linear feet by the Park. 

The cost of the tunnel, which is to be built under contract by 
Glaus Vieths, will be about $92.00 per linear foot. The total cost of 
that portion of the tunnel which is to be constructed at the expense 
of the Park Fund, inclusive of wing walls, will be §22,500. 

VIADUCT. 

The viaduct which carries the railroad over the main drive entering 
the Park at the north-east corner, and which is now in course of 
construction, will have a span of forty-one feet, ami a clear height 
above the road of nineteen feet six inches. It consists of two stone 
abutments with wing walls, at right angles to the road, and an iron- 
plate girder superstructure. 

The abutments and wing walls are built of limestone, except the 
buttresses at the corners of the two faces, which are of Warrensburg 
sandstone. The three base courses above the "round are dressed with 
rockface, the remainder of exposed limestone masonry consists of 
pointed range work, with draft around edges. The sandstones are 
fine dressed, with sunk panels, rosettes, and moulded coping. 

The superstructure is built for the accommodation of two tracks, 
and consists of three plate girders, with iron crossbeams and stringers. 
The outside girders will be ornamented with rosettes and brackets, 
and the coping of the buttresses is continued over the girders in 
galvanized iron. 

A plain limestone balustrade on top of the wing walls, a sandstone 
Ijalustrade, with base, moulded cap, and sunk panelwork over the 
buttresses, and a richly ornamented cast-iron railing on top of the 
superstructure, will serve to give a finished appearance to this 
viaduct. 

The design for this viaduct was prepared by Chas. Pfeifer, Civil 
Engineer. 



79 

The contract for its construction was awarded to Sbickle, Harrison 
& Co., for the sum of $16,515. The cost of this work will be 
increased some eight hundred dollars by the extra cost of founda- 
tions which had to be carried lower than originally designed, on 
account of the greater depth of vegetable mould disclosed during 
excavation. 

The masonry of the eastern abutment, with its two wing walls, is 
completed, and the footing courses of the western abutment are laid. 
The iron work is nearly all ready for erection in the shops of the 
contractors. 

PASSAGE WAYS. 

The passage way for the accommodation of pedestrians entering 
the Park from Lindell Boulevard, Baker Avenue, and Forest Park 
Boulevard, has a span of ten feet, a clear height in the center of 
fifteen feet, and a length of thirty-three feet. It consists of two 
abutment walls, with wing walls at right angles, in broken range 
work, and is arched over with brick. The face of the abutment walls 
and arches, and the moulded coping, are cut stone. This passage 
way is completed, and was built under contract by Glaus Vieths, at 
a total cost of |5,000. 

The other passage way under the railroad is to accommodate the 
pedestrians arriving on the Branch of the West End Narrow Gauge 
Railroad now in course of construction, which will have its terminus 
on the northern Boulevard about one-fourth of a mile west of the 

Lindell Boulevard entrance. 

It has eight feet span, a clear height above footpath of eleven feet 

six inches, and a total length of thirty-nine feet. The wing walls 

are parallel to the axis of the arch. 

The contract for this passage way has been given to James Dunne, 

and its total cost is estimated at about $2,550. Work on it is to be 

commenced at once, and the whole will be finished before the middle 

of Februarv, 1876 — $1,200 of its cost are to be paid for by the St. 

Louis, Kansas Gity & Northern Railroad Company. 



80 



LAKES. 



The lakes and pools which are laid down on the plan, are eleven 
in number, and cover a total area of 42.26 acres, viz : 

No. 1. Circular Pond near Viaduct 1.21 Acres. 

" 2. Sylvan Lake east of Union Avenue 3.14 " 

" 3. Pool west of Union Avenue 1.23 " 

" 4. Lake near south-east corner 7..33 " 

" 5. The Lake south of Hippodrome 26.20 " 

" 6 to 11. Six small ponds in western portion of Park 3.15 " 

42.26 Acres. 

Nos. 1, 2 and 3 are already graded. No. 5 has been laid out 
and carefully estimated. The locations of the other lakes and ponds 
have not been finally determined upon or adopted by your Honorable 
Board. 

The work on lakes has heretofore been done by the Park force. 
The earthwork of the large lake (No. 5) will probably be done under 
contract. 

The cost of Nos. 1, 2 and 3 can only be approximately arrived 
at, and is estimated at $1,000, $3,000 and $7,000 respectively. 

The depth of water is to bo five feet. 

No. 1 is to be fed by the water which the three feet sewer and a 
large drain-pipe, leading into the sewer from the east side of the 
eastern Boulevard (near Baker Avenue) furnishes. A movable weir 
has been built in the three feet sewer, west of the railroad, so that 
the water may be used for either feeding the circular pond or allowed 
to escape into the river. 

The circular pond will also receive the water furnished by a 
fountain which is to be placed in its center, and which will be supplied 
with spring water by a steam pump. 

Pond No. 1 is connected with Sylvan Lake by a large drainpipe, 
by which the latter will receive the surplus water of the other. 
Sylvan Lake is to be provided with an overfall into the river, and 



81 

from both pond and lake, drainpipes, with valves, arc to be laid so 
that the water can at any time be drawn off altogether, for cleaning 
or other purposes. 

The pool north of Union Avenue will be fed by a long sub-drain, 
with several side drains, which come from the fiat meadows south of 
the Cottage. 

The large Lake (No. 5) will, as now laid out, require the excava- 
tion of 160,000 cubic yards of material, which will be used for the 
construction of the drive between the lake and the river, and for 
shaping the grounds north of the lake. Estimating the cost of exca- 
vation at twenty cents per cubic yard, inclusive of haul, the total 
cost will be $33,000, of which sum about 825,000 are chargeable to 
the construction of the lake, and $8,000 to the grading of roads and 
shaping of grounds. 

The minimum depth of this lake will be five feet, its surface of 
water being at fifty-five feet above city directrix. 

In times of high water, this lake may be filled from the river, and 
a large quantity of water can undoubtedly be obtained by sub-draining 
the grounds of the north-west corner of the Park. 

The water which can be obtained from the above-mentioned sources 
will, however, be insufficient for the large quantity needed to replace 
the water lost by evaporation and leakage, for sprinkling roads, for 
drinking fountains, houses, stables, etc., etc., and some other source of 
supply' will have to be sought for. The investigations in this direction 
have, however, not been carried far enough to allow a definite plan to 
be submitted for adoption. 

RIVER. 

The River des P^res, which traverses the Park almost diagonally, 
from the north-west corner to the south-east corner, has a total length 
within the Park limits, of about four miles, and in this distance has 
a fall of 0.1 foot per 100 feet, measured during high water. 

During the greatest flood observed last summer, its depth was 
about fourteen feet, while during some months in the year hardly 
any flowing water is found in the river. 

L 



82 

As the high water overflowed a considerable area of the Park, all 
the drives and adjoining grounds were raised to at least two feet above 
high water. To reduce the line of inundation, the shores of the river 
banks have, in many places, been sloped, the driftwood and sunken 
logs removed, and in three places the course of the river has been 
changed by cut-offs through some of the narrow necks. 

To prevent the driftwood from hereafter lodging in the bed of the 
river, it is intended to build an open weir at a point near the northern 
boundary line of the Park where the river enters. No definite plans 
for .this work have, however, been perfected. 

EXPENSES. 

FOR CONSTRUCl ION. 

The following table gives a summary of the cost of work done, 
and remaining to be done, in the Engineer's Department of Forest 
Park, to carry out the improvements which have, up to date, been 
authorized by your Honorable Board, viz. : 



DESIGNATION OF IMPROVEMENTS. 



Grading of drives and shaping of ground 

Metalling 3.93 miles of drives 

General drainage 

Bridges 

Culverts 

Iron Viaduct 

Tunnel 

Passageways for pedestrians 

Lakes 

Totals 



Total of 

Estimated 

Cost. 



$67,650 
73,205 

8,685 
33,621 

2,466 
17,315 
22,500 

6,350 
41,400 



$273,194 



60 



Paid on 
account to 
Jan. 1, 1876. 



$41,043 

19,529 

4,820 

19,120 

1,554 

9,269 

5,000 
11,000 



$111,337 



77 



Remains 

to be 

Expended. 



$26,607 

53,675 

3,865 

14,501 

912 

8,045 

22,500 

1,350 

30,400 



$161,856 



00 
69 
00 
00 
44 
70 
00 
00 
00 



83 



83 



The cost of work now under contract is shown by the follow- 
ing statement : 



Name of Contractor. 


Description of Work. 


Total of 

Estimated 

Cost. 


Amount of 

Work done 

to date. 


Remain to 

be done 

and paid for. 


J. Fruin & Co 


Grading Boulevard.. 

Paving Gutters 

Brick Inlets 


$12,150 

5,829 

1,604 

3,438 

1,900 

17,315 

2,550 

450 

835 

450 

22,500 


00 
00 
27 
61 
00 
00 
00 
00 
00 
00 
00 


$9,543 
2,577 

492 
2,203 

987 
9,269 


22 
83 
10 
61 
56 
30 


$2,606 

3,251 

1,112 

1,235 

912 

8,045 

2,550 

450 

835 

450 

22,.500 


78 


Ed. Burgess & Co 


17 


W. J. Hegel 


17 


W. J Hegel 


Brick Sewer 


00 




20 feet Culvert 

Iron Viaduct .. . 


44 


Shickle Harrison & Go 


70 






00 


Tim Moraghan 


Gravel 


no 


C Morschel 


Gravel 


no 






on 




Tunnel 


on 










$69,021 
I. Co. on J 


88 
.D 


$25,073 
unne's cor 


62 
tr. 


$43,948 
1,200 


w 


Less am't to be refunded bj 


' St. L., K. C. & N. R. I 


00 












$42,748 


26 



FOR ENGINEERING. 

The force of engineers up to September 1st, was almost exclusively 
employed on topographical surveys. It consisted of seven parties. 

The total cost of these surveys amounted to $10,514.94. 

On September 1st, the force was reduced to two parties under 
Mr. Matthew P. Brazill, as First Assistant and Mr. Cyrus F. Smith, 
as Second Assistant Engineer, and remains so to date. 

Mr. Theo. 0. Link is employed as Draftsman in the city office, 
and Mr. C. Gayler as Draftsman in the Park office. Inspectors of 
masonry, guttering and Macadam, and assistant draftsmen, are 
employed as the exigencies of the work require. 



84 

The total cost of engineering on construction, lias been $6,787.82, 
or about $1,700 per month. 

This amount may appear large in proportion to the cost of con- 
struction, but when the great extent of the Park grounds, the 
number and length of the drives and walks, the necessity of frequent 
changes in location and grades called for by artistic considera;tions, 
the distance of the Park fi'om the city, the sickness prevalent among 
the force during the summer and fall, and the variety of structui'es 
are taken in account, the amount expended will not, I trust, be 
considered excessive. 

The cost of engineering for each month, is shown in Table I. 

Table II. exhibits the property return of the Engineer Depart- 
ment. 

In closing this Report, I desire to express my thanks to the 
gentlemen above-mentioned, and to the remainder of the Engineer 
Corps, for the zeal and fidelity with which they have discharged their 
duties. 

Very respectfully, 

HENRY FLAD, 

Chief Engineer. 



85 



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Draftsmen 

Draftsmen 

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Levellers 

Rodmen 

Chainmen 

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Inspectors of Guttering... 
Inspectors of Macadam... 

Axemen 

Field hands 

Axemen 



86 



TA'BLE II. 

PROPERTY RETURN OF THE ENGINEER 
DEPARTMENT. 



3 Transits. 

2 Levels. 

4 Levelling Rods. 

1 " " (Target.) 

14 Flags. 

5 Steel Tapes. 
4 Metalic " 

15 Plumb Bobs. 
30 Marking Pins. 

3 Hand Axes. 
1 Hatchet. 

1 Thermometer. 

1 Fire Pot. 

1 Set Branding Irons. 

3 Vernier Glasses. 

1 Horse. 

2 Stoves and Fixtures. 

4 Drawing Tables. 
2 " Boards. 

2 Chests of Drawers. 

3 Tables. 
3 Desks. 

14 Chairs. 
2 " (Revolving.) 

1 Stool. 

6 Inkstands. 

2 Lamps. 



3 Spittons. 

1 Bucket. 

2 Feather Dusters. 

3 Waste Baskets. 
1 Water Cooler. 

1 Washstand and Fixtures. 
6 Tumblers. 

1 Large Portfolio. 
6 Paper Weights. 

2 Pairs of Shears. 

1 Set Drawing Instruments. 

2 Sets Water Colors. 

1 German Silver Vernier Protractor. 
1 Paper Protractor. 

3 Nests Color Saucers. 

1 Ink Slab. 

3 Boxwood Scales. 
12 Brushes 

2 Erasers. 

3 Plated Rulers. 

4 Wooden " 

5 Triangles. 
3 T Squares. 
9 Curves. 

2 Paper Clips. 
2 Letter Boards. 
1 Paper Cutter. 



APPENDIX D. 



REPORT 



OF THE 



CHIEF OF POLICE. 



St. Louis, January \st, 1876. 
To THE Honorable ANDREW McKINLEY, 

President of the Board of Commissioners of Forest Park. 

Dear Sir : 

Accompanying this, please find a tabular statement showing the 
police force employed in Forest Park during the year ending Decem- 
ber 31st, 1875. 

Also, a statement of the property received and on hand in this 
Department. 

Very respectfully, 

WILLIAM HENRY, 

Chief of Police. 



92 



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PROPERTY RETURN OF THE POLICE 

DEPARTMENT. 



12 Eevolvers. 

12 Leather Belts for Pistols. 

12 Whistles. 

12 Stars. 



APPENDIX E. 



BY-LAWS 



FOR THE 



Government and Regulation 



OF 



Forest Park. 



BY-Li^L^^^S. 



Section 1. The officers of the Board of Commissioners of Forest^ 
Park, shall consist of a President, Vice-President and Secretary. 

Sec. 2. The President, Vice-President and Secretary shall be 
elected annually by the Board of Commissionei-s, at their first regular 
meeting in February, unless otherwise provided for. 

Sec. 3. Four members of said Board shall constitute a quorum. 

Sec. 4. The President shall preside at all meetings of the Board, 
and shall decide all questions of order, subject to an appeal to the 
Board. 

The Vice-President shall, in the absence of the President, preside. 

Sec. 5. Until otherwise ordered, the regular meetings of the 
Board shall be held on Friday of each week, at 3:30 o'clock, P. M., 
at the office of the Board of Commissioners. 

Sec. 6. Order of business : 

1st. Reading of the minutes of the preceding meeting. 
2d. Reports of committees. 
3d. Unfinished business. 
4th. New business. 
5th. Adjournment. 

Sec. 7. Special meetings may be called by the President, or by 
any two members of the Board ; and when the call is made by said 
members it shall be made in writing, addi-essed to the Secretary, who 
shall notify each Commissioner at his place of address, and state the 
object of the meeting, at least two days before the day of said 
meeting for which notice is given. 



100 

Sec. 8. The Board shall fix the salary of the Secretary, whose 
duty it shall be to keep a correct record of each meeting of the Board ; 
also to keep the seal of the Board ; to have the custody of all commu- 
uicatiofis, letters and reports ; and to perform such other duties as may 
be required of him by the Board of Commissioners. 

Sec. 9. All offices becoming vacant by death, resignation, or re- 
moval, shall be filled at the regular meeting next after the one at 
which said notice was given. Ofiicers so elected shall be by ballot, 
and by a majority of the entire Board. 

Sec. 10. There shall be a Superintendent and Landscape Gar- 
dener, whose salary shall be fixed by the Board, and whose duties 
shall be to superintend the Park and all labor done therein, and to 
carry into e.S'ect such plans and specifications as shall be submitted 
to and adopted by the Board of Commissioners for the ornamentation 
and embellishment of said Park. 

Sec. 11. An Assistant Superintendent shall be elected by the 
Board, whose duty shall be to superintend all day or unskilled labor 
not contracted for, and keep the time of the same, and be responsible 
for all tools, implements- and materials in connection with said Park ; 
he shall submit to the Board an inventory of such property, and the 
condition thereof, on the first days of July and January, and shall give 
such security for the faithful performance of his duties as the Board 
may require ; and he shall perform all such other duties as may be 
prescribed by the Superintendent, unless otherwise ordered by the 
Board. The compensation for services as Assistant Superintendent 
shall be fixed by the Board of Commissioners. 

Sec. 12. There shall be a Civil and Topographical Engineer, 
whose salary shall be fixed by the Board of Commissioners. His 
duties shall be to survey and establish the grades of avenues, roads, 
walks, bridges, etc., as may be adopted by the Board of Commis- 
sioners. 



101 

Sec. 13. There shall be an Assistant Engineer, whose salary- 
shall be fixed by the Board of Commissioners, and whose duties shall 
be prescribed by the Civil and Topographical Engineer, uidess other- 
wise directed by the Board of Commissioners. 

Sec. 14. All subordinate officers shall be subject to removal by a 
vote of a majority of all the members of the Board of Commissioners 
at any regular meeting. 

Sec. 15. Every contract made for material furnished for said 
Park and for services, shall be in writing; and every written con- 
tract for material, labor, or service for said Park, shall contain the 
stipulation that no claims shall be allowed for extra work, labor or 
material furnished, or alterations made on account, or in connection 
with said Park, unless agreed upon as to the extent and price at the 
time of the contract therefor in writing. 

Sec. 16. Contracts not required to be made in writing, and not 
exceeding one hundred dollars, may be made by the President, and 
entered upon the minute.s ; but every contract exceeding one hundred 
dollars shall be in writing, and shall be signed by the President and 
the seal of the Board attached, and attested by the Secretary — after 
being approved by the Board. 

Sec. 17. There shall be a police force, to consist of a captain and 
as many men as may be authorized by the Board, whose salaries shall 
be fixed by the Board of Cominissioners, whose duties it shall be to 
preserve order in said Park, and carry out and enforce such rules 
and regulations as may be directed by said Board. 

Sec. 18. All trials for violations of rules and regulations for the 
government of said Park shall be conducted by the President, or by 
any Commissioner named for that purpose by the President, or by 
appointment by the Board of Commissioners. 



102 

Sec. 19. No person in the service of the Board shall be absent 
from duty unless excused by the Board, or by permission from the 
President. 

Sec. 20. No officer or person employed by the Board shall make 
any purchase, give any order to incur any liability, or exercise any 
authority in relation to said Park, unless by order of the Board of 
Commissioners. 

Sec. 21. All foremen, assistant foremen, and all other appoint- 
ments, not heretofore provided for by these By-Laws, shall be made 
or confirmed by the Board of Commissioners. 

Sec. 22. All bills, claims and accounts, before being submitted 

to the Board for approval, shall be examined and audited, and the 

authority for such purchases shall be certified thereon by the Sec- 
retary. 

Sec. 23. The ayes and noes shall be called and recorded on all 
appropriations of money exceeding the sum of |500.00, and upon all 
other questions, at the request of any one member of the Board of 
Commissioners. 

Sec.- 24. All reports shall be in writing, unless otherwise agreed 
to, and signed by a majority of the Committee to whom the matter 
was referred, and shall state the facts upon which the same is based, 
and the conclusions thereon. 

Sec. 25. All propositions presented to the Board for altering in 
any manner the design or plan of Forest Park, or for any structure 
within the Park, shall be referred to a special committee, who shall 
report upon the same before any further action is taken by the Board 
of Commissioners. 

Sec. 26. No By-Law shall be altered, amended, or repealed, 
without the report of a Committee thereon, nor without the assent 



103 

of a majority of the whole Board, nor at the same meeting at which 
it is proposed, unless by the unanimous consent of all the members 
of the Board of Commissioners. 

Amendment to Sec. 25, passed Dec. 24th, 1875. 

Resolved, That the plans and the locations of roads, bridges, cul- 
verts and viaducts shall not, under any circumstances be altered in 
any manner, at any time, except by a vote at a full meeting of the 
Board, and then only by a vote of not less than five members at 
two separate subsequent meetings of the Board. 



